Jonathan Moore to Debut With Central Oregon Symphony
The new music director will lead the orchestra in a Fall Concert series at Mountain View High School this weekend.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Classical
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Jonathan Moore will officially debut as the new music director of the Central Oregon Symphony during performances on October 24-25, 2026. The program at Mountain View High School will feature works by Leonard Bernstein, Max Bruch, and Ludwig van Beethoven.
Why it matters
The appointment marks a significant transition for the orchestra following the 30-year tenure of former leader Michael Gesme. Moore was selected after a competitive search to fill the role while maintaining his roots in the Bend community.
The search process for the new director involved multiple rounds of interviews among 55 to 85 applicants. The performance will feature the Candide overture, a piece Leonard Bernstein wrote in 1956.
The players
Jonathan Moore
He is the newly appointed music director for the Central Oregon Symphony and an instructor at Central Oregon Community College.
Michael Gesme
He is the former music director who led the orchestra for 30 years prior to the recent leadership transition.
John Fawcett
He is a violinist who will perform as the soloist for the Bruch concerto during the upcoming concert.
The details
The performance includes a violin concerto by Max Bruch with soloist John Fawcett, who began playing the instrument at age five and won a competition at age eight. The Central Oregon Symphony Association manages the orchestra in partnership with Central Oregon Community College.
Timeline
June 2026: Jonathan Moore was appointed as music director.
October 24-25, 2026: Fall Concert performances at Mountain View High School.
November 8, 2026: Cascades Winds Symphonic Band season-opening concert.
Industry Dynamics
The Central Oregon Symphony's upcoming season will celebrate America at 250, mirroring national cultural commemorations planned for the nation's semiquincentennial. This thematic programming highlights how local symphonies align their schedules with broader national historical milestones.
Audience members can attend the debut performances at Mountain View High School on October 24 and 25, 2026. Those interested in local music beyond the symphony can also catch Moore conducting the Cascades Winds Symphonic Band on November 8.
The takeaway
Moore brings a deep local background to the symphony, having previously conducted the Central Oregon Youth Orchestra. Fans of classical music in the region can expect the organization to lean into large-scale national celebrations throughout the coming year.
Further reading
For more information on the season schedule and upcoming performances, visit the Classical section.
More information
Find complete program details and ticket information on the Central Oregon Symphony official website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Bulletin.
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