Joseph Accuardi-Gilliam

Portland Youth Philharmonic is excited to welcome a familiar face back to the PYP family. PYP alumnus Dr. Joseph Accuardi-Gilliam, who performed as a tuba player and graduated in 2002, has officially joined the PYP Board of Directors.

Joseph currently serves as Principal of Vancouver School of Arts & Academics and brings decades of experience in music education, arts leadership, and nonprofit advocacy. In addition to his work in education, he has served for more than 20 years as Artistic Director and Conductor of Rose City Pride Bands, helping grow one of the region’s most vibrant community music organizations.

A passionate advocate for arts access and youth development, Joseph brings deep experience in educational leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement. As both an educator and former PYP musician, he shares PYP’s belief in the transformative power of music education and the importance of creating meaningful artistic opportunities for young people.

We are thrilled to welcome Joseph back to PYP in this new leadership role and look forward to the insight, energy, and perspective he will bring to the organization’s future.