The Kamloops Symphony Orchestra [KSO] & KSO Music School are delighted to announce the appointment of Christopher Young as the new Executive Director of the KSO following a national search conducted by Martin Bragg & Associates. Young's extensive background in arts management, music education, and community engagement makes him an ideal candidate to lead the organization into its next phase of growth and excellence.

Born and raised in Fort St. John, BC, Young is a graduate of the University of Leeds in the UK, where he was granted a Master of Arts with Distinction in Music & Management. During this time, he showcased his expertise in governance, management, and marketing for regional arts organizations, including contributions to Opera North, the Leeds International Piano Competition, Leeds Lieder, and Leeds Baroque. His leadership skills and innovative strategies have already made significant impacts during his tenure in the Sales & Marketing department at the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra & VSO School of Music.

Young's multifaceted accomplishments extend beyond arts administration, as he actively contributes to the musical community as a trumpet player and music educator. He completed his music degree at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, AB, and has studied with renowned Canadian and international musicians. His achievements also encompass considerable success in marketing, fundraising, and management for diverse artistic and not-for-profit projects across Western Canada.

KSO President and Board Chair, John McDonald, believes Young’s passion and experience will be vital to launching the KSO into its next 50 years. "The board searched locally and nationally for someone with the skills and drive to advance the orchestra and our music school, and deepen their connections with our communities”, says McDonald. “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. We are excited for him to bring his enthusiastic spirit and experience to Kamloops and our region.”

Christopher Young shared his excitement for the KSO, saying, "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. My passion and my background in music and arts management drives 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."

Christopher Young will begin with the KSO on September 18, 2023.

About the Kamloops Symphony

Established in 1976, the Kamloops Symphony Society is dedicated to enriching the lives of the citizens of Kamloops and the Thompson Valley Region through music. Now in its 46th year, the KSO is a cornerstone of the cultural landscape of the BC Interior. With an annual operating budget exceeding $1 million, the organization consistently presents high-quality professional orchestral concerts and educational programs, enriching the lives of all members of the community.

The KSO engages, enriches, and educates through the power of music. With an artistic vision focused on excellence, innovative programming, and community outreach, the KSO aims to be the premier professional music provider in the BC Interior.

About Martin Bragg & Associates

Martin Bragg & Associates is a full-service arts and culture management team offering consulting services to the creative economy sector.