Katy Koy

Executive Director, Valley Symphony Orchestra

Music has the ability to cast a wondrous spell over those listening as strings, reeds, horns and percussions create harmonies, which have the ability to move people’s souls.  It can change people for the better, enriching the lives of those who play and those who listen.

“I believe the arts have the power to change lives as well as communities,” said Katy Coy, Executive Director, Valley Symphony Orchestra. “I am thrilled to be part of a community that continually works toward making arts a major force for change in the Valley. I believe the arts are a powerful tool for economic development and education, upgrading the overall quality of life.”

Joining the Symphony in October of 2018, Coy considers the McAllen Performing Arts Center one of the finest she’s ever been in.

“I feel like the luckiest person to be part of filling it with artists and people to enjoy them, all the while using it for the good of the community,” she said. 

Presenting five master works performances and a collection of community events each year, the Symphony also provides six children’s concerts, which bring in 10,000 students from across the Valley.

With the Valley Chorale also part of the Symphony, Coy and her team of three full time employees and a handful of part-timers run the largest employer of artists in the Valley. Married to a trombonist in the Symphony, she feels her work is a family affair.

“I went into Arts Administration because I love artists. I love to be in a room with people who are masters of their crafts Every day I get to support and promote our musicians by telling the world why they are the best at what they do,” she said. “I love what I do, and I know I am right where I’m supposed to be.”