The Orchestra

Barbara Santoro, Music Director

Barbara Santoro has been with the Monmouth Symphony Orchestra for over 35 years, as principal clarinet, auxiliary clarinet and now Associate Conductor.  She began conducting the MSO with an in-school concert in the Asbury Park School System and the Annual Young People’s Concert at Long Branch Middle School.  This past spring, she was honored to share the podium with Maestro Gussman in a regular season concert, leading the orchestra with Gary Schocker and Emily Mitchell as soloists.  As Director of Educational/Youth Programs for the MSO, Mrs. Santoro oversees the development of teacher materials in connection with the Young People’s Concerts as well as the Young Artist Concerto Competition.  Other conducting duties include leading the George Krauss Memorial Concert Band and Associate Conductor of the Central Jersey Wind Ensemble.  As a freelance musician, Mrs. Santoro performs with the Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea, various concert bands, orchestras and chamber groups in New Jersey.  Mrs. Santoro is an active member of the New Jersey Music Educators Association, presenting workshops at the local, regional and national levels as well as maintaining an active private studio.   A graduate of Trenton State College (now the College of New Jersey), Mrs. Santoro holds a Bachelor of Science in Music Education and a Masters of Education, with Supervisor and Principal certifications.