Meet Our Staff
Our staff, conductors, and coaches are passionate educators and accomplished musicians dedicated to helping students excel musically, connect socially, and grow personally. Together, they create a supportive environment where young musicians can build skills, confidence, and a lifelong love of music.
Leadership
Emily Reed | Executive Director
Emily brings nearly 20 years of teaching experience and a passion for helping students grow as musicians. She studied Music Education and Vocal Performance at George Fox University and has taught both privately and in local schools.
A dedicated multi-instrumentalist, Emily teaches voice, piano, violin, and cello, at Voice in the Valley and currently serves as a violin coach and Young Violins director with Maple Valley Youth Symphony Orchestras. She loves helping students of all ages build confidence, develop strong musical skills, and discover the joy of making music.
Rylan Virnig | Music Director & Symphony Orchestra Conductor
Rylan Virnig earned his Master's degree in Orchestral Conducting from the University of Washington under the direction of Dr. David Alexander Rahbee. He also holds degrees in Violin Performance and Economics from Gonzaga University, where he received numerous honors for his musical achievements.
In addition to serving as Music Director for MVYSO, Rylan is Music Director of the Federal Way Youth Symphony and Assistant Director for Admissions at the University of Washington School of Music. An accomplished violinist and conductor, he has worked with numerous youth orchestras and symphony organizations throughout the Pacific Northwest and is passionate about helping young musicians develop their artistry and confidence.
Our Founder
Elisa Lewis | Founder of Maple Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra
Elisa Lewis co-founded the Maple Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra and served as Executive Director for 13 years.
Her passion for music education and youth development helped shape MVYSO into the organization it is today. With a degree in Therapeutic Recreation from California State University, Fresno, Elisa built a program that emphasizes not only musical excellence but also fun, friendship, and personal growth.
"MVYSO has the best staff of any youth symphony. Each of them has a personal story of how youth music has changed his or her life."
Conductors & Coaches
Cherlyn Johnson | Debut Orchestra Conductor, Elite Strings Director, Violin Coach & String Specialist
Cherlyn Johnson has been part of MVYSO since its earliest days, sending two of her top violin students to join the organization's original orchestra.
She holds a Master of Music in Violin Performance from the St. Louis Conservatory of Music and a Bachelor of Music from North Park University in Chicago.
An active performer, composer, arranger, and private instructor, Cherlyn is passionate about helping students engage, excel, create, and soar as musicians.
Cherlyn is also avaible for private teaching outside of the MVYSO program, and at an additional cost. You may reach out to Cherlyn here if interested.
Kelsey Tryon | Bassoon Coach
Kelsey Tryon earned her Master's degree in Bassoon Performance from the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelor's degree in Music Education from the University of Puget Sound.
She has performed with numerous orchestras and chamber ensembles throughout the Puget Sound region and has been actively involved with organizations including Marrowstone Music Festival and Bassoons Without Borders.
Kelsey enjoys sharing her enthusiasm for music through teaching, mentoring, and helping students discover their potential as musicians.
Kelsey is also avaible for private teaching outside of the MVYSO program, and at an additional cost. You may reach out to Kelsey here if interested.
Jarrod Snyder | Trumpet Coach
Jarrod Snyder was one of MVYSO's first ten members and has been teaching private trumpet lessons since 2009.
He completed Bellevue College's Music Theory program and performs with several ensembles throughout the region, with jazz improvisation among his specialties.
As an educator, Jarrod enjoys encouraging creativity and helping students build confidence while developing their musical skills.
Jarrod is also avaible for private teaching outside of the MVYSO program, and at an additional cost. You may reach out to Jarrod here if interested.
Private Teachers
Amy Putnam | Percussion and Piano Teacher
Amy teaches piano and percussion, from beginner through early advanced levels. She holds a Master of Music from The Juilliard School and a Bachelor of Music Education from Miami University, and currently serves as Principal Percussion with Symphony Tacoma. With over 30 years of experience, she teaches from her studio in East Renton Highlands.
Staff Resources
Coaching Schedule
View the current coaching schedule.
Staff Forms