Our Name
Sul Ponticello is a musical term for stringed instruments meaning to play “near the bridge”. Decatur, alternatively called “The River City” has a downtown area situated close to the Tennessee River, which is spanned by two traffic bridges and a not too distant railway bridge. Hence, “orchestra near the bridge”.
Our History
Orchestra Sul Ponticello began as a chamber group and has grown to a full orchestra. The vision of Viljar Weimann, founding conductor of the orchestra, was to have a professional chamber orchestra that provided live classical music in the River City and inspired members of the Decatur Youth Symphony to aspire to one day play with the adult orchestra. More advanced youth players are invited to play in parts of the concerts. The orchestra has been so well received that it now has grown beyond a chamber group into a full orchestra.
Our Vision
Founded by Conductor Viljar Weimann, it was the vision of some of the professional musicians in the city to actively cultivate musical life in the River City. The intention was to enrich the artistic opportunities available to Decatur residents, inspire young musicians with a broader range of musical choices, and enhance the artistic culture of our area.