PLU Symphony Orchestra

The University Symphony Orchestra is led by an experienced team of artist/teachers. Those most directly involved in the day-to-day operation of the ensemble are:

Jeffrey Bell-Hanson 253-535-7617

Conductor Jeffrey Bell-Hanson is in his eighth season as conductor of the University Symphony Orchestra and Associate Professor of Music at PLU. His career on the podium and as a teacher spans over 25 years and has included faculty appointments in Michigan, Louisiana and Kansas. In addition to his academic positions, Dr. Bell-Hanson has conducted orchestras and wind ensembles throughout the United States and in Bulgaria and the Czech Republic. Dr. Bell-Hanson recently competed a sabbatical leave during the 2008-2009 academic year researching and writing about the subject of ensembles and community.

Concertmaster, Prof. of Violin Svend Ronning joined the violin faculty of Pacific Lutheran University in 1999, having previously served on the faculty of the University of Virginia. During his tenure at PLU he has become one of the most active violinists in the region, serving as Concertmaster of the Tacoma Symphony Orchestra and the Tacoma Opera, as well as frequent soloist, recitalist, chamber musician, and recording artist.

Svend Ronning 253-535-7605

Lecturer in 'Cello Richard Treat 253-535-7609

Before moving to the Pacific Northwest, 'Cellist Richard Treat worked as a freelance musician and throughout the Southern California area. He holds degrees from California State University at Los Angeles where he studied with Stephen De'ak, Eleonore Schoenfeld and Lucien LaPorte. Mr. Treat has performed with many orchestras, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Pacific Symphony and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. He was Principal 'cellist in the Santa Barbara and South Coast Symphonies as well as the Mozart Camerata, and the Pasadena Chamber Orchestra. He also had a long a distinguished recording career. He can be heard on the soundtracks of several major motion pictures, and appeared multiple times on the Tonight Show.

Other faculty whose students participate in the USO