Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Announces New Youth Orchestra Director

Little Rock, ARK, July 1, 2021 – The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra has named Gabriel Bruce as the new conductor and director of the Arkansas Symphony Youth Orchestra.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to carry on the legacy of musical excellence that has been long established with the Arkansas Symphony Youth Orchestra,” said Bruce. Bruce added he is looking forward to working with Youth Orchestra parents, Arkansas Symphony musicians, and especially the finest students in the state to continue to deliver meaningful educational and musical experiences in the community.

Bruce will work in collaboration with Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Artistic Director, Geoffrey Robson, to program music, rehearse, schedule, and recruit musicians for the elite ensemble of the orchestra’s youth programs. Robson said Bruce will be a strong addition to the ASO team during a period of growth for the state’s orchestra, adding, “Gabriel has the combined attributes of high-level training in orchestral conducting and a deep understanding of the music education landscape in Arkansas.”

Upcoming Youth Orchestra Events

Auditions for the Arkansas Symphony Youth Orchestra are August 30th through September 3rd. For more information about eligibility, audition materials, and tuition, visit ArkansasSymphony.org or call 501666-1761, ext. 116.

The 2021-2022 Youth Orchestra Spring Residency features violist Jordan Bak, who will be featured as guest soloist with the Youth Orchestra on Friday, April 22, 2022.

The 2021-2022 Side By Side Concert, which features professional musicians from ASO sitting side-by-side with Youth Orchestra musicians, is Sunday, May 1, 2022.

For more information about auditions, the Spring Residency, or the Side By Side Concert call 501-6661761, ext. 116.

Gabriel Bruce, conductor, Arkansas Symphony Youth Orchestra

Jordan Bak, Spring Residency Guest Artist (https://jordanbak.com/)