FILE PHOTO
Image Credit: SUBMITTED / Kamloops Symphony Orchestra
September 06, 2023 - 3:00 PM
After a national search, the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra has found its new executive director.
Christopher Young hails from Fort St. John and his first day on the job is Sept. 18, according to a media release from the symphony.
“Chris was our board’s unanimous choice. His energy, relationships with music and musicians, and commitment to diverse programming and audience development are well recognized," symphony board chair John McDonald said in the release. "We are excited for him to bring his enthusiastic spirit and experience to Kamloops and our region.”
Young obtained his music degree from the University of Alberta in Edmonton and went on to pursue his graduate studies at the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom where he obtained a Master of Arts with Distinction in Music and Management.
During his time in Leeds, he contributed to the Opera North company, as well as to the Leeds Lieder and Leeds Baroque music organizations.
Christopher Young is the new executive director of the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/Kamloops Symphony Orchestra
Young has experience in arts management, music education and community engagement and held tenure in the sales and marketing department of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and School of Music, the symphony said. His list of achievements — encompassing distinguished skills in marketing, fundraising and management for artistic and not-for-profit projects across Western Canada — are what made him the perfect candidate.
“It is a privilege to step into the role of executive director for the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra & KSO Music School: institutions which hold much importance and opportunity for the community," Young said in the release. "My passion and my background in music and art management drive my commitment to further enrich the cultural landscape and foster artistic excellence across the Thompson Valley.
"As a musician and as an audience member, I understand the transformative power of the live music experience, and I am excited to work alongside the KSO's talented team to cultivate meaningful cultural and artistic experiences for all members of the community."
Established in 1976, the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra was established in 1976. It holds concerts for the community and has a musical education program, which operates within a budget of over $1 million.
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