The Reading Pops Orchestra will take the stage in Wyomissing later this month as part of the borough’s 2025 Summer Concert Series. The performance is scheduled for Saturday, July 26 at 7 p.m. and will be held indoors at the Wyomissing Area High School Auditorium. Admission is free and open to the public.
Founded in 1969 by conductor Wes Fisher, the Reading Pops Orchestra has been a cultural mainstay in Berks County for more than five decades. The 55-piece professional ensemble is made up of musicians from Reading and the surrounding region, with a repertoire that blends “popular classics” and “classic pop” selections.
Over the years, the orchestra has been led by several of Reading’s most notable musical figures, including J. Carl Borelli, Henry Gass, Frank Siekman, Lewis “Skip” Norcott, and Paul Cusano. More recently, conducting duties have been shared by Charles Weiser and current Music Director Dr. Willis M. Rapp, former Chair of the Music Department at Kutztown University.
For the Wyomissing concert, guest conductor Brian Mishler will lead the orchestra. Mishler is Director of Orchestral Studies at Parkland High School and has served as a youth conductor with the Reading Symphony Orchestra. A seasoned cellist, he has performed with the Altoona, York, Reading, and Delaware Symphonies.
The July 26 program will feature familiar selections from Broadway, film, and television.
“The Reading Pops is a true treasure in our region,” said Randy McKinley, Wyomissing’s Director of Recreation and Communications. “They’re a group of extraordinary musicians who bring high-quality performances to our community, and we’re honored to host them as part of this year’s Summer Concert Series.”
The Wyomissing Recreation Board organizes the Summer Concert Series as part of its year-round efforts to meet the recreation needs of the community. For more information, visit the Borough of Wyomissing’s official website.
