George Jackson appointed in US
George Jackson has been appointed Music Director and Conductor of the Amarillo Symphony, Texas, following a competitive selection process by the orchestra's Music Director Search Committee, which involved input from musicians, community representatives, patrons and board members.
The orchestra's origins date back to chamber music concerts in local homes in 1924. By 1926 it was a full symphony orchestra with a full-time conductor and it now performs eight concerts a season in the $30-million Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts, which opened in January 2006. The orchestra also commissions new music and takes an active part in education and outreach, including through its Amarillo Symphony Youth Orchestra.
As well as conducting the orchestra, Jackson will drive its artistic vision and musical planning as it goes into its centenary year, alongside taking part in the orchestra's community outreach.
Jackson said: 'When I first conducted the Amarillo Symphony earlier this year, I knew immediately that this is a very special orchestra. I was impressed by their unique curiosity and hunger in their music-making and the possibilities offered by the outstanding Globe-News Center. It excites me how seriously the community of Amarillo takes its orchestra, and I am humbled to have been entrusted with the next chapter, particularly in celebrating the Symphony's centenary next season. I am incredibly lucky to find a new musical family to call home and look forward to many happy years ahead.'
Jeff Booth, who led the search, explained, 'We were impressed with how he inspired our musicians and made his concerts a truly special experience. Off the podium, we viewed his ideas for the future of our Symphony and for collaboration with the other arts organizations in our area to be innovative and creative. We appreciate his vision for working with our youth and our schools. His excitement about taking on this position equals our excitement for the future of our Symphony with him as our new Music Director.'
