About
About
For over a quarter century, students at Corona del Sol High School in Tempe, Arizona, USA have cultivated a vibrant tradition of excellence in music education, with its orchestra program standing as one of three key pillars of that legacy. The Corona del Sol orchestras have consistently earned superior ratings at regional and state festivals, reflecting a broader community-wide commitment to artistic achievement. Over the years, the program has continued to grow, offering students rich opportunities for performance, collaboration, and musical development. In 2025, the orchestra program expanded from two ensembles to three, marking a new era of growth and participation for over 90 young musicians.
The 2025-2026 Corona Del Sol orchestras perform together with members of local middle school orchestras during the Fall Concert on September 23, 2025.
Orchestra Leadership
Alexandra Holste is a graduate of Arizona State University where she graduated summa cum laude with a B.A. in Music Education in 2013. Ms. Holste is currently the Director of Orchestras and the Associate Director of Bands at Corona del Sol High School in Tempe and was the 2019 recipient of the Tempe Union High School’s Inspiration award for her innovative practices and dedication to the field of education (center of group photo to left).
Her ensembles regularly receive ratings of Superior with Distinction at festivals. In addition to working at Corona, Ms. Holste frequently serves as an adjudicator and clinician for the AMEA Solo/Ensemble Festival, regional auditions, and all-state auditions. In the spring of 2019, Ms. Holste was invited to conduct and teach a session at the Tau Beta Sigma Western District Convention at Arizona State University. She served as the AMEA West Region Band Chair from 2020-2023 and was a guest conductor for the PVUSD Honor Orchestra in 2023.
Ms. Holste is an active flutist, performing throughout the valley and is currently a member of the Tempe Wind Symphony where she serves as rotating principal and piccolo chairs. She was a featured soloist during the 2017/2018 season. She maintains a successful private lesson studio where her students are regularly the top of their sections at their respective school and regularly earn spots in regional and all-state honor bands and orchestras.
Orchestra Council
With guidance from Ms. Holste, the student-led orchestra council helps organize and sustain the operations and culture of the orchestra program. Its members coordinate events, manage music and facilities, document activities, and promote communication among students, directors, and the community. Through leadership and collaboration, the council ensures that the orchestra runs smoothly and that students take active ownership of their ensemble.
Meet the 2025-2026 orchestra council board members ...
Leila Lubovac
President
Sophie Kim
Vice President
Elijah Collins
Secretary/Historian
Christelle Lavine
Facilities Manager
Tressa Hawley
Head Librarin
Orchestra Boosters
The Corona Del Sol Orchestra Boosters is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that supports the orchestra program and student orchestra council through fundraising, volunteer coordination, and community outreach. It provides essential financial assistance for equipment, travel, and performance opportunities while fostering partnerships between students, families, and the school. Through its efforts, the boosters aim to enhance the educational and artistic experiences of all orchestra members.
Corona Del Sol Orchestra Boosters Mission Statement
Corona del Sol Orchestra Boosters provides financial, physical, and promotional support for all curricular and extra-curricular orchestra activities. We are dedicated to enhancing school spirit and strengthening relationships among students, families, teachers, and the community. Through collaboration and service, we strive to ensure a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving orchestra program that enriches the lives of students and celebrates the power of music.
Marsha Spencer
President
Alisa Wolfe
Vice President
Starla Robinson
Treasurer
Steve Zuiker
Communications