The Youngstown Symphony Orchestra (YSO) and Henry H. Stambaugh Auditorium Association announced the orchestra's new music director, Erik Ochsner, who will be formerly welcomed during a Jan. 25 performance at Stambaugh Auditorium.

"I am thrilled and honored to be working with the wonderful musicians of the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra," Ochsner said. "I want to impress upon our community that classical music is for everyone!"

Home for the Holidays, a performance featuring soprano Amanda Beagle, will open on Dec. 22 at 7:30 p.m. at Stambaugh to begin the orchestra's 2025/2026 season, with Ochsner leading the orchestra. 

Ochsner will lead the orchestra curating season programming, conducting and "deepening the orchestra's connection with the Mahoning Valley and beyond," according to a press release from YSO.

The new maestro has conducted in over 50 cities worldwide, including Tokyo and Beijing, and has guest-conducted nine concerts for the YSO in years past.

"Whether you are attending a Classical masterworks concert, a pops program, or a film with live orchestra, you are always welcome," Ochsner said. 

Ochsner, also the founder and music director of New York City's SONOS Chamber Orchestra, graduated from Dartmouth College and has trained at The Pierre Monteux School. 

Approaching its 100th anniversary, Ochsner and YSO will "celebrate beloved classics while also exploring newer and less familiar works that are just as exciting and enjoyable," Ochsner said. 

Ochsner has studied under conductors including Robert Spano, Charles Bruck, Erich Kunzel, Marin Alsop and Helmuth Rilling.

YSO's performances are free to Youngstown State University students and are located at Stambaugh Auditorium on 1000 Fifth Avenue in Youngstown.