About Us
The Williamson County Youth Orchestra was founded in the fall of 1997. Through the generosity and support of many dedicated strings and instrumental teachers, committed students and parents, and a supportive and caring community, the WCYO has continued to grow. Currently in its ninth year of service to the youth of the county, the WCYO provides a unique musical experience for its members.
Mark Johnson, WCYO Conductor
Mark Johnson has served as director of the Williamson County Youth Orchestra since September 2006. He is a native of Bethany, Oklahoma and graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University in 1982 (Bachelor of Music, Theory/Composition) and The University of Oklahoma in 1984 (Master of Music, Composition.) From 1985-1996 he served on the music staff of churches in Oklahoma and Texas until joining the Music Ministries Dept. of LifeWay Christian Resources in 1996, where he served as Consultant, Editor and later Editor-in Chief. While at LifeWay, Johnson coordinated all instrumental and keyboard publications, produced recordings and led instrumental training events in over 20 states. In 2006 he became a free-lance composer, arranger, orchestrator, and conductor. Johnson founded The Cool Springs Symphony, a faith-based string orchestra with participants throughout the country who concertize and record regularly. He is currently scoring his first documentary film for release in 2009. He and his wife Lisa reside in Franklin along with their two daughters who are members of the WCYO and the Franklin High School Band.
Melissa Edgington, WCJO Conductor
Melissa Edgington began studying violin at a young age. She attended the University of South Carolina and received a Bachelor's Degree in Music with emphasis in Instrumental Music Education. Mrs. Edgington has taught at the University of South Carolina String Project (1999 - 2003), was a participant in the USC Symphony, the Lake Murray Symphony, and was the full-time orchestra director at Fulmer Middle School (2003-2006). In addition to conducting the Williamson County Junior Orchestra, she teaches strings at Poplar Grove Middle School in Franklin Special School District and is currently pursuing a Masters in Music Performance from Belmont University.