Music Director and Founder of the Vancouver Pops, Tom Kuo is a Vancouver-raised violinist, violist, music educator and conductor. 

After finishing music school and working as a full time instructor, Tom was inspired to create something different that his students and amateur musicians might enjoy more. He wanted to focus on ensemble experiences—making music together with others, because having companions on stage with you gives you more confidence and bring out your best. He wanted musicians to experience performing in front of real audiences (not just friends and family) and to present music that’s nostalgic, theatric, and inspiring (Hollywood, Disney, Broadway).

In 2010 it was just a handful of high school students playing together to the tune of "All I Want For Christmas is You". Now in 2026, we have over a hundred musicians and singers coming together to recreate the amazing movie soundtracks and Broadway show tunes. Over the past 15 years, Tom has led the VPOPS Orchestra and Choir through dozens of concerts in the lower mainland, plus two tours to New York City, one tour to Tokyo, Japan, and one to London, UK.

Grateful for his amazing team, all the performing members, and all the support the organization has received, Tom makes sure that new and returning members are welcomed to Vancouver Pops with warmth and enthusiasm.

In his spare time, Tom enjoys being active through tennis and volleyball. He also enjoys being outdoors spending time on a hike, at a lake, or going camping. He dabbles in the kitchen regularly and occasionally takes on a DIY woodworking or home improvement project.

Being immersed in the arts all her life, Anita was delighted to find great community and happy times here at Vancouver Pops. Anita joined VPOPS after previously exploring classical piano, jazz bass, Chinese cultural dance, busking, ukulele, graphic design, and more. She holds her ARCT in piano performance and has both led and performed in multiple choir groups in the past. She is passionate about fostering community and helping people out of their comfort zones.

Outside of music, Anita enjoys hosting a good event, exploring the outdoors, doing the occasional gig, and spending time with her friends. She also works as a software developer. Enjoy the show!