About SSCO
Our Mission
The South Sound Community Orchestra is a nonprofit organization in Olympia dedicated to instilling a love of music in people and giving a space for musicians to come together to create a community and share their unique skills in music.
Our Vision
Our Objectives and Values
- To provide an atmosphere which encourages personal growth as an individual musician and as an ensemble player
- To develop sight reading skills
- To build relationships with other musicians
- To provide enjoyable concerts for the community
We value inclusivity, collaboration, lifelong learning, and bringing the joy of music to the community.
Inclusivity Statement
At the South Sound Community Orchestra, we believe music is for everyone. We are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where all individuals—regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, socioeconomic background, or musical experience—are welcomed and valued. We want to bring people together through the shared joy of making music and welcome musicians of all abilities and walks of life.
Our Team
Hover over our team members for their bios
Lantz Berets
Conductor
Bio
Lantz Berets, an Olympia native, is now in his seventh season as conductor of SSCO. He has conducted with Student Orchestras of Greater Olympia, and many orchestras and choirs. As a bassoonist he performed with the United States Air Force, Olympia Symphony Orchestra, and many other ensembles. He holds a Bachelor of Music from Western Washington University and a Master of Music from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Keisha Chinn
President
Bio
Keisha has been playing music since the 5th grade and joined SSCO in 2019. Outside of the orchestra, Keisha serves as an IT Manager for WA State Dept. of Transportation. She is an active leader in the technology community, serving on various governing boards. In her free time, she enjoys creating wire wrap jewelry, reading, and exploring the outdoors.
Shawna Worden
Vice President
Bio
This is Shawna’s first season performing with the SSCO, where she’s diving into the world of percussion with enthusiasm and a healthy dose of humility. Though still green in this section—learning the ropes one triangle ding at a time—she brings over 30 years of experience as a pianist. Whether behind the keys or exploring new rhythms, Shawna is passionate about creating music that connects, uplifts, and enriches her community.
Erin Pearson
Treasurer
Bio
Erin has lived in Thurston County for over 35 years. She began playing the cello as a child. She wanted to play the violin, but her mom said, “everyone plays the violin, why don’t you play a different instrument” and a love for the cello was born. Erin took a 30 year hiatus as an adult. She’s played with SSCO for 7 years.
Peggy Nuñez
Secretary
Bio
Peggy is an intermediate-level violinist with 6 years’ experience playing and 4 years’ experience performing. Peggy spent the last 20 years as career volunteer for military organizations and civilian school libraries, classrooms, and adjacent organizations. She served on various governing boards as president, vice president, secretary, and more. She loves writing, typing, and data entry (total nerd and okay with it).
Toby Johnson
Membership Chair
Bio
Toby has been playing bass since they were in middle school, and love being able to play with a group of musicians. As the membership chair they help with odd jobs on the board and keep our membership lists up to date. In their free time they enjoy spending time with their family and being outside as much as possible.
