Knier Appointed Guest Conductor of SSO

SALISBURY, MD---With more than two decades of conducting experience, Lawrence “Lee” Knier takes the helm of the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra at Salisbury University this fall as guest conductor. Knier replaces former SSO conductor Jacqueline Wogick, who is unable to continue in the position because of health reasons. Wogick, who directed the orchestra last spring, submitted her resignation this summer. “We were very fortunate to have had her in the spring,” said SU Music Department Chair Linda Cockey. “She had a positive contribution, particularly to our string sections. The orchestra really progressed under her direction.” Knier agrees: “I thought last year was a very healthy year for the orchestra. We’re playing better all the time. My goal is to continue that momentum.” No stranger to local musicians, Knier has performed as a trombonist with the SSO for a year and a half and last semester directed the SU Jazz Ensemble. Orchestra officials appointed him to the conductor’s position after consulting with symphony board members and orchestra musicians including former guest conductor and founding symphony member Charles Smith. “Knier understands the unique makeup of the orchestra and will help us during this transitional period,” said Derek Bowden, managing director of the symphony. This year, the 60-member orchestra will offer more performances than last and include more students, Knier said, adding that the orchestra’s audience is growing. “My personal goal in joining the SSO was to meet people on Delmarva who were interested in music,” he said. “There is a growing desire for orchestral music in this area, and we are happy to be a part of that.” As a trombonist, Knier toured with the Glenn Miller Orchestra and has performed with the Maryland Symphony and Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra among others. He began his career teaching music and conducting at the high school level in Pennsylvania in 1972, earning his Bachelor of Music in education from Temple University that year. In 1976 he earned a Master of Music in performance with a concentration in conducting from Arcadia University in Glenside, PA. He also studied arts administration at Drexel University in Philadelphia. Along with conducting the SSO, Knier will serve as a lecturer of music and also conduct the SU Band this semester. For more information call 410-543-6030 or visit the SU Web site at www.salisbury.edu.