Maxwell Willoughby

Maxwell Willoughby, a junior at Kirkwood High School, is excited for his second season with the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra.  

Willoughby began studying the viola in fourth grade through Kirkwood’s elementary strings program. In sixth grade, Willoughby started his journey through the Community Music School (CMS) of Webster University’s sequential orchestra program, culminating in his April 2025 appearance as assistant principal violist of the Young People’s Symphonic Orchestra at Carnegie Hall.  

Willoughby currently serves as principal violist for his school’s symphonic orchestra and is a member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society. Willoughby was selected for the 2026 Missouri All-State Orchestra, having been awarded an honorable mention the previous year. Additionally, he has received several gold ratings at the Missouri State High School Activities Association’s Solo and Ensemble Festival. Last summer, Willoughby participated in the Arianna Chamber Music Festival; he is grateful to the Arianna String Quartet for providing such a transformative experience that has both deepened his musical understanding and strengthened his commitment to chamber music. 

In addition to music, Willoughby enjoys studying science and math, staying active, and spending time with family and friends. 

Willoughby would like to thank Kirkwood orchestra directors Sarah (Klevorn) Dane and Fariga Drayton-Conway for their strong foundational teaching and ongoing generosity of spirit; CMS conductors Nancy Daby, Sarah (Klevorn) Dane, and Patrick Jackson for their dedication, knowledge, and exacting standards; and private instructors Matt Pickart and Chris Tantillo for sharing their wisdom, commitment, and enduring love of the viola.