Minot Symphony Orchestra welcomes new conductor

The Minot Symphony Orchestra will host a “Meet the Maestro” open house, welcoming its new conductor Efraín Amaya, Oct. 6 in the Conference Center (Student Center, third floor), from 5 to 7 p.m. This is an opportunity for the community to meet Amaya prior to the season opener concert that will take place Oct. 10 at 7:30 p.m. in Ann Nicole Nelson Hall.

“Though one can easily say he is a consummately well rounded and seasoned musician,” said Kenneth Bowles, music division chair, “we here at MSU are impressed that his warmth and affable personality will open many doors for our students and audiences.”

Amaya, American conductor, composer and pianist, brings a wealth of talent and experience to MSU with distinct international credentials. He was most recently the founder and conductor of the Pennsylvania-based Point Chamber Orchestra, which he led in concert tour throughout Italy. Prior to that, he was the resident orchestra conductor at the prestigious Carnegie Mellon University, the Greensburg American Opera and the Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra, among others. His work as a conductor ranges from contemporary music ensembles to youth orchestras.

Amaya’s compositions have been performed at major international festivals from Seattle to his home country of Venezuela. With scores of compositions to his credit, his works have been recorded and performed by a long list orchestras, ensembles and artists. A cursory YouTube search will bring up a lengthy representation of performances of his operas, orchestral and chamber music as well as his own performances as both conductor and pianist.

Amaya began his musical training in Venezuela, where he was born, and continued his studies in the U.S., earning two bachelor’s degrees in composition and piano from Indiana University and a master’s degree in orchestra conducting from Rice University, Houston.

For questions, contact minotsymphony@minotstateu.edu or 858-4228.

About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.

Published: 09/21/15   


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