Concertmaster

Shirley Astwood, Concertmaster, holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Fort Hays Kansas State University and a Master’s Degree in Violin Performance from Texas Tech University.  She taught orchestra in private and public schools and violin at San Jacinto Jr College, retiring after 33 years.  She currently serves as an orchestra clinician and UIL adjudicator.  In 2008, Shirley was named Outstanding Music Educator by the Houston Symphony.  She is an advocate for community orchestras and has served as Associate Principal of the Lubbock Symphony, and Concertmaster for the Pasadena Philharmonic and Symphony North of Houston.  She believes that these organizations not only provide music-making opportunities for community members, but also can foster the musicianship of younger players.  Shirley counts it as a privilege to play with the fine musicians of the Kingwood Pops Orchestra under the baton of Dr. Hunt and participate in the diverse and highly entertaining concerts that the KPO presents to our community friends, family, and patrons.