Walter Noona composer / arranger

Walter Noona was a winner in the district and state competitions of the Steinway Centennial Contest, which let to participation in the semi-finals. He was awarded the Woolley Foundation Scholarship which entitled him to a year of study at the University of Paris, France. He has appeared in solo recitals in cities throughout the county and has appeared as guest soloist with orchestras in New Orleans, Chicago, North Carolina and Virginia.

For a number of years, prior to establishing his own studio and becoming deeply involved in writing for children, Mr. Noona was on the staff of several schools, including the University of Illinois, Xavier University in New Orleans, LA, and Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA. For the last several years his private piano studio has been located at eth Norfolk Academy in Norfolk, VA.

Along with a vital interest in piano performance and pedagogy, he is also deeply involved in orchestral music. He is presently the musical director and conductor of the Virginia Beach Pops Orchestra. This organization maintains an active subscription schedule and contributes greatly to the cultural life of southeastern Virginia. Mr. Noona is also a guest conductor across the nation. Most recently he has conducted the Pittsburgh Symphony, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, the Hartford Symphony, Nashville Symphony, San Jose Symphony, Fort Lauderdale Symphony Orchestra, Honolulu Symphony Orchestra, Calgary Symphony Orchestra, Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and the Hamilton Symphony Orchestra. Walter Noona was selected by the late Ethel Merman to be her personal conductor for the last two years of her performing career. In this capacity he conducted orchestras across the country for her appearances.