Mr. Billy Chou, Executive Director
Billy Chou has been the Executive Director of The Capitol Symphonic Youth Orchestras since June of 2022.
Mr. Chou attended Ithaca College for Music Education, studying piano and percussion. After graduating, he worked in Ithaca, Miami, and Washington D.C. in the restaurant industry in various positions. In addition, he worked for Winterhalter Music, LLC as a private piano instructor in the DMV region. As Executive Director, he is able to use his hospitality, management, and music background to create a welcoming and nurturing environment for our students.
Ms. Barbara Dobberstein, Operations Manager
Ms. Dobberstein currently works for Fairfax County Public Schools as a reading specialist at Whitman Middle School. She spent much of her career as a band teacher in FCPS, and is currently on staff at Mount Vernon High School. She is instrumental in setting up rehearsals, sectionals, concerts, outreach events, and liaises with our rehearsal and concert venues. She helps set up chairs and stands for all rehearsals, and organizes many behind the scenes details.
Ms. Beverly Gowins, Venue Manager
Ms. Beverly Gowins is a retired Finance Technician who served Fairfax County Public Schools for 25 years, primarily at Whitman Middle School. In retirement, she remains deeply committed to her community, donating food and essential supplies to local schools through her own charitable organization in support of families in need. Since 2017, Ms. Gowins has been an integral part of TCSYO, assisting with the operations of rehearsals and serving as the Venue Manager for concerts.
Ms. Sarah Geiger, Office Assistant
Ms. Sarah Geiger's musical journey began at the age of 3 when she started violin with the Buffalo Suzuki Strings. Through the years she pursued a variety of musical opportunities at the local, regional, and state levels, and upon graduating high school attended Ithaca College for Music Education, graduating in 2005. Ms. Geiger returned to Ithaca College in the summers from 2018-2020 and earned a Masters in Music Education.
Currently, Ms. Geiger teaches for Loudoun County at Farmwell Station Middle School in Ashburn, VA working with 6th, 7th, and 8th grade orchestras. Additionally, she coaches Chamber Orchestra – an after school club for students that desire extra performance opportunities. She enjoys bringing students into the community for real-world music experiences, and collaborating with other schools. Ms. Geiger is a conductor with the Loudoun Symphony Youth Orchestras, and is an active freelance violinist with the Maestra Ensemble.
