In 2024, Russ Pieken co-founded AD ASTRA YOUTH ORCHESTRA KANSAS CITY. In less than two years, this cutting-edge program has welcomed over 180 students in grades 5-college level string players. Ad Astra musicians hail from all parts of the Kansas City area, from both sides of the state line. Ad Astra is developing a caring community where young musicians grow, shine, create beauty, and thrive. Our goal is for each member to find joy in performing great music and taking part in meaning performances with their peers. This mirrors Kansas City’s spirit of creativity, support, kindness, humility, pride, and heart.

Ad Astra members have collaborated and performed with professional and community musicians. The list includes Grammy-nominated organist/pianist Jan Kraybill, KNPR Host/Violinist Destiny Mermagen, and Kansas City Symphony Concertmaster Jun Iwasaki. In 2024, Ad Astra was the featured performance group for the Annual Kansas City Chamber of Commerce Awards Dinner and Banquet. Ad Astra is proud to have been selected/invited to perform at the 2026 KMEA Conference in Wichita. June of 2026 will see Ad Astra take part in the Vienna Masterworks Residency in New York City which will culminate with their debut performance in Carnegie Hall.

Mr. Pieken has a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and Viola Performance from UMKC, a Master’s degree in Education from Baker University, and has continued studies at the Vandercook College of Music in Chicago.