Sussex County’s own symphony gathers musicians of all ages who perform sell-out concerts that combine classical and contemporary scores
Written by Kristen Hampshire
Inside the warm and festive Cape Henlopen High School auditorium, a large crowd gathers, eagerly awaiting the rich, joyful sound of Southern Delaware’s very own symphony orchestra—a sound that will sweep them into the magic of the season.
This is Sodelo, the Sussex County community orchestra born in 2022 out of a shared love of music and a vision for bringing people together.
It all began when Stephen Greifer moved to Delaware from New York. He was feeling the loss of the community orchestra with which he once played and which had disbanded during the pandemic. Longing to play music again, he sent out a simple Facebook post—just a suggestion, really—but what he got back was more than he could have ever imagined. The response was overwhelming.
A chorus of local musicians chimed in, all yearning for the same thing: a place to play, a place to belong. “There’s nowhere for string players here,” the comments read. Greifer couldn’t have agreed more.
Enter Eva DelGallo, a Lewes violinist with the heart of a conductor. She saw what this idea could become and told Greifer, “This is our chance to start something beautiful.” Stephen and Eva caught the attention of James Allen Anderson, the head of Orchestral Studies at the University of Delaware. James didn’t just offer advice—he offered to lead. Now, just two years later, Sodelo is a 70-piece orchestra that has become a beloved part of the community.
As the holiday season approaches, Sodelo’s third season brings something extra special: a festive lineup that promises to warm hearts and brighten spirits. On December 14 at Sussex Academy in Georgetown, and again on December 15 at Cape Henlopen High School, Sodelo will take the stage for a holiday concert filled with magic and cheer.
As the holiday season approaches, Sodelo’s third season brings something extra special—a festive lineup that promises to warm hearts and brighten spirits.
The program is a delightful mix of classical and traditional holiday music that will transport audiences to a winter wonderland. And this year, the symphony will introduce a special performance of the enchanting Christmas Eve Suite by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov.
For Stephen Greifer, the joy of Sodelo isn’t just in the music—it’s in the people. “It’s amazing to look over at the next music stand and see someone one-third of my age playing alongside me,” he says with a smile.
In Sodelo, young musicians, retirees and everyone in between come together, creating a harmony that reflects the spirit of the season—one of unity, joy and celebration. With its music filling the air, it’s sure to be an unforgettable celebration of the season—a hallmark of what makes this time of year so special.