A new orchestra director in 野狼社区 will fill two roles to help lead college-level performers at 野狼社区 University and younger music students at Oklahoma Youth Orchestras.
Clifton Evans has been appointed to the joint leadership position of artistic director and conductor of the Oklahoma Youth Orchestras (OKYO) and director of Orchestral Activities at OCU鈥檚 Wanda L. Bass School of Music.
鈥淚鈥檓 honored to join two incredible organizations dedicated to musical excellence and education,鈥� Evans said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a privilege to step into this role and work with such talented students, faculty and community supporters. I look forward to the music we鈥檒l make together.鈥�
Evans is principal conductor of the Houston-based American Festival for the Arts Conservatory Orchestra. Since 2007, he has been director of orchestras and professor of conducting at University of Texas at Arlington.
鈥淒r. Evans is a passionate educator and dynamic conductor who brings fresh energy and deep experience to both OCU and OKYO,鈥� said Mark Parker, dean of the Bass School of Music. 鈥淗is dual role reflects the strong partnership between the two organizations and deepens the connection between collegiate and youth music education in Oklahoma. Over the past two decades, Dr. Evans has earned a reputation for his inspiring leadership, creative programming, and commitment to student growth.鈥�
Evans earned his DMA in orchestral conducting from the University of Houston and MM (orchestral conducting) and BM (percussion performance) from the University of Texas at Austin. In 2022, he was honored with the UT-Arlington鈥檚 Outstanding Tenured Faculty Teaching Award in the College of Liberal Arts.
His previous positions include artistic director, Arlington Youth Symphony; director of orchestras and chamber music, Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, Houston; music director, Gilbert and Sullivan Society of Houston; conductor, Houston Youth Symphony; and music director/conductor, Houston Civic Symphony.
鈥淒r. Evans鈥� appointment marks an exciting new era for OKYO,鈥� said Kris Markes, executive director. 鈥淗is passion for youth music education and visionary leadership will inspire our students and strengthen our mission to nurture talent across Oklahoma.鈥�
He succeeds Jeffrey Grogan, who held the OKYO/OCU position since 2017 before returning to his native Texas.
Learn more at okcu.edu/music and.
