And although the majority of TYSO alumni may not make a living from music, the skills they have learned from being part of such an ensemble, as well as their appreciation for classical music, remain a part. lasting of their life.

It is in recognition of Wheeler’s lifelong work in music education that the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra created the Ron Wheeler Tulsa Symphony Music Educator of the Year Award, which will be presented annually to a music teacher. copy of Oklahoma.

Wheeler himself will be the first recipient of the award, which will be presented as part of the orchestra’s upcoming concert, titled “Folk Dances”, on Saturday January 15 at Tulsa PAC.

The concert, conducted by resident guest conductor Daniel Hege, will feature two works by English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams: his Symphony No. 2, originally titled “A London Symphony,” and the Concerto in F minor for bass tuba and orchestra. The orchestra’s principal tubist, Jarrod Robertson, will be the soloist in this work.

The program will also include “Romanian Folk Dances” by Bela Bartok and “Simple Symphony” by Benjamin Britten.

Announcing the award, the new chairman of the Tulsa Symphony board, Kyden Creekpaum, described Wheeler as “a titan among music teachers (who) has shaped generations of young musicians, instilling in them his infectious passion for music. power of great music. His legions of students – including me – are forever enriched by the experience of making music under Ron’s baton.