About Us

The Hampton Roads Philharmonic (HRP) showcases the community’s rich musical talent in five exciting programs throughout the season: October, December, March, April, and May. A diverse orchestra, the HRP includes active and retired military, music teachers, students, senior citizens, and youth. The orchestra welcomes familiar and new composers alike and actively commissions new works each season.

Our mission is to strive for artistic excellence, increase community awareness and participation in the performing arts, program a diverse selection of repertoire, and create a variety of educational opportunities and experiences.

In 2013, the Hampton Roads Philharmonic (HRP) was founded by a passionate group of local musicians—professional and amateur, active and retired military, teachers and students, senior citizens and youth, former concertmasters, and community members—who shared the dream of creating a new orchestra for the region. That summer, their vision became reality.

The HRP is led by Music Director Steven Brindle, a Christopher Newport University graduate recognized in local press as an exciting and dynamic conductor. Under his baton, the orchestra has been featured in the Daily Press, Virginia Gazette, Gloucester Gazette, Diversions, Coastal Virginia Magazine, and CNU Alumni Magazine.

The orchestra has performed regularly at venues including the American Theatre in Phoebus and the Fort Monroe Theater. A standout feature of the Philharmonic’s season is the Young Artist Competition, which gives talented student musicians the chance to perform as featured soloists with the orchestra.

In addition to full-orchestra concerts, the HRP provides chamber ensembles for community events and outreach performances across Hampton Roads. The orchestra is committed to presenting a wide range of repertoire, welcoming both familiar favorites and contemporary compositions. It also actively supports the creation of new music, having premiered several original works by living composers.