Wando High School Orchestras
Directors
Dr. Ryan Silvestri is in his thirteenth year at Wando High School as Director of Orchestras. A native of Boardman, Ohio,
Dr. Silvestri earned a bachelor's degree in instrumental music education from Florida State University, a master's degree in violin performance from UNC-Greensboro, and a doctor of music education degree from Liberty University. Ryan completed his string education studies with the late Dr. Michael Allen, co-author of the Essential Elements for Strings series, and Dr. Rebecca MacLeod.
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As a violinist, Ryan has performed with the Charleston, Greensboro, and Tallahassee Symphonies and also served as Concertmaster of the Brevard Music Center Sinfonia Orchestra. Primary violin teachers include Marjorie Bagley, Corinne Stillwell, Eliot Chapo, John Wilcox, and Kathryn Walker. In addition to teaching at Wando, Ryan served as the inaugural director of the Charleston Symphony Youth Strings from 2019-2022 and as an adjunct professor of strings at Charleston Southern University.
Professional associations include NAFME and ASTA. Dr. Silvestri has frequently served as a guest adjudicator and clinician and published articles in the American String Teacher. Under his direction, the Wando Orchestras have nearly tripled in size and consistently received Superior ratings at SCMEA Concert Festival. The Wando Honors Orchestra was invited to perform at the SCMEA state conference (2017/2024) and the ASTA National Orchestra Festival (2018). Ryan lives in Mount Pleasant, SC with his wife, who is also a music educator and violinist, and four children.
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He looks forward to another great year with the Wando Orchestras as they constantly strive for even higher levels of success!
Mitch Goodwin is in his first year as the Assistant Orchestra Director at Wando High School, where he brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the role. Mitch earned his Bachelor’s degree in Double Bass Performance from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and was awarded a full scholarship to Carnegie Mellon University, where he completed his Master’s degree in Double Bass Performance.
With a full studio of double bass students, Mitch has a proven track record of guiding many to success. His private students regularly earn spots in Region, All-State, and local youth orchestras. Over the past five years at Summerville High, Mitch significantly expanded the orchestra program, earning numerous accolades including five Special Teacher awards.
As a performer, Mitch plays locally with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra and the North Charleston Pops. His performance experience extends beyond the region, having collaborated with the Hollywood Bowl, the Greensboro Symphony, the Fayetteville Symphony, and the Winston-Salem Symphony. Additionally, Mitch has showcased his talents internationally, including performances in Italy.
Mitch’s passion for teaching and performing continues to inspire and elevate the musical community. He is thrilled to bring his enthusiasm and expertise to Wando High School.
