The Youngstown Symphony Orchestra has officially named its new music director.

The Youngstown Symphony Society Board has unanimously approved the recommendation of the Music Director Search Committee to appoint Maestro Sergey Bogza as the next music director of the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra (YSO).

Bogza will officially begin his initial 3-year term on July 1.

As music director, Bogza will be responsible for conducting the orchestra, planning seasons and programming, increasing opportunities, and promoting arts and culture in and around the Valley.

Bogza was born in Russia and emigrated to the United States in 1995. He holds a Masters of Music degree in orchestral conducting from Central Washington University and a Doctorate of Musical Arts degree in orchestral conducting from the University of Minnesota.

In addition to being the Music Director of the YSO, Maestro will continue as Music Director of the Panama City Symphony in Panama City, Florida. Bogza has previously held Music Director positions with the Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra, Willmar Symphony, and Heartland Symphony Orchestra.

"I am deeply honored and thrilled to be chosen as the next Music Director of the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra," Maestro Bogza shared. "Music has the extraordinary ability to unite communities, inspire, and touch our hearts in profound ways. I am looking forward to this new journey and creating unforgettable musical memories with the wonderful people of Youngstown."

The Youngstown Symphony Orchestra will open its 2024-2025 season on October 5 at the Edward W. Powers Auditorium at the DeYor Performing Arts Center.

A Gala will be held in early September to mark the opening of the season and to formally introduce Bogza to the community. More information about the Gala will be announced soon.

For more information about the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra, visit their website: https://youngstownsymphony.com/