Huw Edwards, music director of the Seattle Youth Symphony, will assume the vacancy left by former conductor Jonathan Shames.
"We're very happy," said Ries. "He's a tremendous talent and a very gifted programmer. He's also got a keen wit. He's going to be wonderful."
Edwards was one of five candidates to guest conduct the orchestra's 2002-2003 season. After each performance, both audience members and the musicians were asked to fill out extensive surveys to judge the candidate.
Ries said the final decision took that feedback into account and each group came to the same decision: Edwards was the man.
"It's most pleasing to get a good response from the musicians," said Edwards, a native of Wales, England. "During the audition, we got along very well. I think the orchestra is hungry to keep progressing and refining their performance."
Edwards' first official function as the new conductor will take place during a June 26 reception to introduce him to the public. His debut concert will follow on July 23 for Olympia's Music in the Park program, with the season kicking off Oct. 12.
Now in the process of programming the season, Edwards hopes to have it finalized in time to announce it at the June 26 reception. A printed season brochure will be ready in time for the Music in the Park performance.
Season tickets are already available from the symphony office.
Ross Raihala is the entertainment editor for The Olympian and can be reached at 360-754-5406 or weekend@theolympian.com.
- What: The Olympia Symphony Orchestra will introduce its new conductor, Huw Edwards, during a public reception.
- When: 5:30 p.m. June 26.
- Where: The Schmidt House, 330 Schmidt Place, Tumwater.
- Tickets: $40. (Must be purchased by June 19.)
- For information: Call 360-753-0074 or see www.olympiasymphony.com.