History of the LMSO

The idea for Lake Murray Symphony Orchestra began in 2001 when a small group of musicians performed with the Lexington County Choral Society. Several players in that group saw the potential for a larger ensemble and founded a steering committee. Headed by artistic director Dr. Einar Anderson, the committee successfully incorporated the orchestra, recruited additional musicians, obtained non-profit status, held a fund raising event, and organized LMSO's premiere concert, which was presented on March 28, 2004. The first Board of Directors was elected May 18, 2004 which still continues to oversee the operations of the organization.

Artistic Director

Dr. Einar Anderson has served as conductor and artistic director of the Lake Murray Symphony Orchestra since its inception. A native of Chicago, he earned a Master's Degree in orchestral conducting from the University of Southern California. In addition, he also holds academic degrees from Stanford and Harvard Universities. His credits include ten years as director of the South Carolina Philharmonic Orchestra, as well as numerous appearances as guest conductor in the USA, Europe, Korea, and South America.

For ten years, Dr. Anderson served as Artistic Director of the Lutheran Bach Choir of South Carolina. Active for many years as a horn artist, he was a founding member of the Palmetto Brass. Dr. Anderson has played with the San Diego Symphony, San Antonio Symphony, Philharmonic Orchestra of Mexico City, and the Corpus Christi Symphony.

Assistant Director

Kimberly Sullivan received her undergraduate degree in conducting from Western Connecticut State University. She served as assistant conductor of the WCSU Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra.

She earned a Master’s degree in Conducting from Ithaca College where she studied choral, wind, and orchestral conducting. An avid supporter of arts in the community, she also brought an ensemble to local nursing homes.

Kimberly is a two-time recipient of a Fellowship Award from the Conductor's Institute of South Carolina. Her conducting career has taken her to Bejing, Xian, Prague, Seattle, New York, and other cities where she has conducted both professional and youth orchestras.

LMSO Board of Directors