Announcing Jonathan Moore, Central Oregon Symphony’s New Conductor and Music Director

Jonathan Moore

New Conductor and Music Director of the Central Oregon Symphony

The Central Oregon Symphony is pleased to announce the appointment of Jonathan Moore as Music Director and Conductor of the Central Oregon Symphony, while also serving as Music Director of Cascade Winds, Principal Conductor of OperaBend, and Assistant Professor of Music at Central Oregon Community College. 

A respected conductor, educator, and advocate for music education, Moore brings extensive artistic and leadership experience to these roles. He succeeds Maestro Michael Gesme, whose leadership and vision helped shape the Central Oregon Symphony into one of the region's most valued cultural institutions.

“I am honored and excited to serve as Assistant Professor of Music at Central Oregon Community College, Music Director of the Central Oregon Symphony and Cascade Winds, and Principal Conductor of OperaBend,” said Moore. “Over the past decade, I have developed a deep appreciation for this remarkable community and the people who make it such a special place. I am grateful to call Central Oregon home and look forward to continuing to serve, inspire, and connect our community through music.”

Born in Nice, France, Moore began studying piano and French horn at an early age and was raised in a family of professional artists. He earned Master of Music degrees in Instrumental Conducting and French Horn Performance from Southern Methodist University, where he studied conducting with Dr. Paul Phillips. He also holds degrees in French Horn Performance and Political Science from the University of Florida.

Moore previously served as conductor of the SYZYGY New Music Ensemble in Dallas, Texas, where he led performances of contemporary chamber orchestra repertoire and premiered numerous new works. He has worked as a cover conductor for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and Meadows Symphony Orchestra and has participated in leading conducting programs, including the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music, the Burgos International Music Festival, and the Monteux School and Music Festival.

For more than a decade, Moore has been a dedicated leader within Central Oregon's arts community. As Music Director of the Central Oregon Youth Orchestra and High School Music Director at Redmond Proficiency Academy, he oversaw significant growth in student participation and artistic achievement. He has also performed with the Central Oregon Symphony and worked with both the Sunriver Music Festival and OperaBend.

“Michael Gesme has been an incredible champion for classical music in Central Oregon,” Moore said. “I am honored to continue the Central Oregon Symphony’s legacy of artistic excellence, accessibility, and community engagement as our region continues to grow. I look forward to building on the Symphony’s people-centered mission and finding new ways to serve and connect with audiences throughout Central Oregon.”

Moore's vision for the Symphony emphasizes artistic excellence, community engagement, and programming that balances beloved masterworks with music by living composers representing diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

“The Central Oregon Symphony is a valued cultural institution and serves as a vital gathering place for both audiences and musicians,” Moore said. “My goal is to deepen the orchestra’s connection to our community through meaningful programming, innovative initiatives, and a continued commitment to musical excellence.”

Moore lives in Bend with his wife, a fellow horn player in the Central Oregon Symphony, and their young son. Outside of music, he enjoys backcountry skiing, cycling, traveling, and playing jazz piano.