Artistic Staff
Joe Deller
Joe Deller – Philharmonic Orchestra Conductor
Joseph Deller received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Violin Performance from Hope College and has pursued a free lance music career in the Detroit Metropolitan area. He is currently a member of the Detroit Opera Orchestra, Flint Symphony Orchestra, and Dearborn Symphony Orchestra. He has also appeared with several other area orchestras including the Jackson Symphony, International Symphony, Oakland Symphony, and others. He maintains a private studio of violin, viola, and piano students at his home in Dearborn and has recently begun group violin instruction through the Harbor Homeschool group in Dearborn. In addition, Joseph serves as music director and conductor of the Dearborn Youth Symphony.
Donna Olkowski
Donna Olkowski – Flute Choirs Conductor
Mrs. Olkowski received bachelors and masters degrees in music from the University of Michigan. After 14 years of experience directing grade school through high school band programs, she now has a private studio of 40 flute students. Mrs. Olkowski is second flute for the Dearborn Symphony.
Candace Chappell
Candace Chappell – Chamber Orchestra Conductor
Ms. Candace Chappell has been teaching elementary and middle school orchestra since 2015 and currently teaches in the Ann Arbor Public Schools. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Eastern Michigan University and recently obtained her Master of Music in Music Education from the University of Michigan. Ms. Chappell has enjoyed teaching at and directing orchestra camps around the state of Michigan throughout the years, and teaches private cello lessons. She has been playing the cello since 2003 and occasionally gigs in the community. In her spare time Ms. Chappell enjoys music, reading, crafting, time in nature, and spending time with her husband and two dogs. She is so excited and proud to be a part of the Dearborn Youth Symphony!