Leadership change at Poway Symphony Orchestra Foundation

There’s some new leadership at The Poway Symphony Orchestra Foundation, including Bo Matthys, who has served as President of the Foundation’s Board of Directors since its inception.

He is stepping down from the position effective June 1, 2025, but will remain actively involved with the organization, serving on the PSO Foundation Board as President Emeritus.

Taking over the role of President is James Reid, Ph.D., the current Vice President of the Board and a dedicated advocate for classical music and education.

Matthys has been a driving force behind the Poway Symphony Orchestra since its earliest days, long before the Foundation was officially established. The PSO was formed in 2004 as a class in “orchestra playing” under the umbrella of the Poway Unified School District Adult School program, an affiliation that continues today. When Music Director and Conductor John LoPiccolo joined the orchestra in 2014, Matthys recognized the orchestra’s potential for growth and led the effort to form a nonprofit foundation to support the orchestra’s artistic, financial, and operational needs.

“I always wanted to give back something to society in appreciation for the classical music that I have cherished throughout my life,” Matthys said. “This orchestra gave me that opportunity. It has been incredibly fulfilling to help build and support an ensemble that now brings high-quality symphonic music to our community.”

Under Matthys’ visionary leadership, the orchestra grew from a grassroots ensemble into a full “hybrid” symphonic orchestra with about 65 members, composed of both dedicated volunteers and professional musicians. Over the years, the orchestra has gained a loyal audience base and built a strong reputation for artistic excellence in the Poway and Rancho Bernardo communities and the North County region of San Diego County.

In addition to being instrumental in establishing the Foundation’s 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, Matthys helped build a solid donor network, secure rehearsal space through the continued support of the Poway Unified School District, and establish a stable concert presence at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts.

“It’s been an honor to see the PSO grow from an idea into a thriving and valuable cultural asset for the community,” Matthys said. “Thanks to our dedicated musicians, patrons, and supporters, we’ve built something truly unique and special.”

Stepping into the role of Board President is Dr. James Reid, who has served as Vice President of the PSOF Board for the past eight years. With a Ph.D. in music from UCLA and a deep scholarly and personal appreciation for global musical traditions, Reid brings both passion and expertise to the role.

“I’ve been deeply connected to classical music since childhood,” said Reid. “While my career path diverged into the business world, I’ve never stopped intensive studying and listening to the Western classical music tradition. The opportunity to help guide this orchestra is a tremendous honor. I hope to build on the solid foundation Bo Matthys has created in the past two decades and use our momentum to actualize the full potential of our fine orchestra.”

Dr. Reid credits Matthys with laying the groundwork for the orchestra’s success:

“Bo can rightly be called the Father of the PSO. From creating the nonprofit structure to engaging our outstanding music director and nurturing the ensemble’s development for over 20 years, his contributions are unparalleled. We are fortunate that he will continue to lend his insight and support as President Emeritus.”

Looking to the future, Dr. Reid envisions a period of growth and innovation for the PSO. His priorities include strengthening the PSO’s financial foundation through expanded donor engagement and grant opportunities, expanding the orchestra’s concert season, launching educational outreach programs in the Poway Unified School District, and enhancing community partnerships and awareness throughout the entire North County community.

“The PSO has nearly unlimited potential, given the right resources,” Reid noted. “We want to extend our reach, offer more opportunities for community and educational engagement, and provide even more enriching musical experiences.”

The Foundation invites all community members to be part of this exciting new chapter, attending concerts, volunteering their time, or offering financial support.

“This orchestra belongs to the community,” said Reid. “Our supporters—individuals, businesses, foundations, educators, and music lovers—are the lifeblood of our mission. Together, we can create a lasting legacy of music and cultural enrichment for Poway, North County, and beyond.”

For more information about the Poway Symphony Orchestra, upcoming concerts, and how to support its mission, please visit powaysymphonyorchestra.org.