During the month of March, 1960, the very first concert of the UCSO was conducted by Washington University Professor of Music and piano teacher, William Schatzkamer. "Willie", as he was affectionately called, was recruited for the position of music director and conductor by Lily Kaufman, one of his piano students. Lily was the first UCSO Association President. She was also the wife of Nathan Kaufman, the Mayor of University City at that time. Willie remained at the helm as UCSO music director and conductor until the end of the 1996-1997 concert season, at which time he announced that he was stepping down. The UCSO Association then selected another of Willie's one-time piano students, Oberlin University graduate Leon Burke III, from candidates auditioning to be Willie's successor. Maestro Burke continues to lead the UCSO in its mission to provide rich musical experiences and educational opportunities for the culturally diverse community of University City and beyond.