
Conductors
Bold. Dynamic. Unforgettable.
The visionary conductors of the Louisville Orchestra bring bold leadership and artistic brilliance to every performance. Their dynamic energy captivates audiences, creating unforgettable musical experiences that resonate locally and beyond. Meet the creative forces driving the Louisville Orchestra to new heights.

Robert Whitney
Founder and Music Director
1937–1967

Jorge Mester
1967–1979
2006–2014

Akira Endo
1980–1982

Lawrence Leighton Smith
1983–1994

Max Bragado-Darman
1994–1998

Uriel Segal
1998–2004
See Our Conductors in Action
Thursday, July. 03, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Presented by the Jasteka Cultural Center
Play America
Join us for The Louisville Orchestra's FREE Community Concert, "Play America." This family-friendly event promises an evening filled with music, community, food, and fun!
Saturday, July. 05, 2025 at 8:30 PM
The Louisville Orchestra and the Louisville Zoo
ROARchestra
ROARchestra is back! The Louisville Orchestra and your Louisville Zoo have partnered together again to present a wildly entertaining musical evening.
Tuesday, July. 08, 2025 at 7:30 PM
The Commonwealth Tour
In Harmony Tour: Glasgow
Join us on tour! Celebrate summer with a vibrant program that combines iconic classics, exciting new works, and unexpected surprises in central Kentucky.
Wednesday, July. 09, 2025 at 7:30 PM
The Commonwealth Tour
In Harmony Tour: Elizabethtown
Join us on tour! Celebrate summer with a vibrant program that combines iconic classics, exciting new works, and unexpected surprises in central Kentucky.
Thursday, July. 10, 2025 at 7:30 PM
The Commonwealth Tour
In Harmony: Muhlenberg
Join us on tour! Celebrate summer with a vibrant program that combines iconic classics, exciting new works, and unexpected surprises in central Kentucky.
Sunday, July. 13, 2025 at 7:30 PM
The Commonwealth Tour