Our
Conductor!
Damon Gupton, assistant conductor of the Kansas City Symphony, will be the conductor for the 2008 Symphony in the Flint Hills concert. Gupton’s conducting credits include appearances with the Cleveland Orchestra, Houston Symphony and the Toledo Symphony. Gupton studied conducting with David Zinman and Murry Sidlin at the Aspen Music Festival and with Leonard Slatkin at the National Conducting Institute in Washington, D.C.
Kansas City Symphony Music Director Michael Stern says, "I had seen Damon's work at the Aspen Music Festival and therefore knew about his exceptional talent.” Stern says he is excited to be working with Gupton who will bring not only his musical talents, but also his great personality to all projects, including Symphony in the Flint Hills.
Damon Gupton commented, "I am absolutely thrilled to be joining the Kansas City Symphony family. My life has been continually touched by wonderful people and amazing opportunities in such varied and adventurous places. This is no exception, and good fortune continues to smile on me. This is an exciting place to be and I look forward to growing and learning here as Michael Stern, Frank Byrne and the entire Kansas City Symphony community continue to break new and thrilling ground. It is a true honor."
The multi-talented Gupton received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Michigan, then went on to earn his diploma from The Drama Division of the Juilliard School in New York.
A native of Detroit, Mich., Gupton lives in New York City where he also has an active career as an actor. As an actor, Gupton has had roles in television, film, and on stage, including his leading role in the 2005 production of "Carter's Way" at the Kansas City Repertory Theater. His film roles include the 2002 drama "Unfaithful" directed by Adrian Lyne. His TV credits include appearances on "Third Watch" and "Law and Order." The combination of his musical gifts and his training as an actor make Damon Gupton an exceptionally effective spokesperson and advocate for symphonic music.