Meet the East Metro Symphony Orchestra's New Maestro

East Metro Symphony Orchestra director Craig Hara
Craig Hara is the new director of the East Metro Symphony Orchestra.

We asked new East Metro Symphony Orchestra director Craig Hara to tell us about his background and his new role.

How did you become acquainted with EMSO?
I was substitute conducting a rehearsal of another orchestra, and one of the musicians there, who is a regular member of EMSO, mentioned to me that EMSO was doing a search for a new music director/conductor … While I have conducted a number of different ensembles from time to time, being a professional musician (player), the idea of conducting “for real” never really came up, mainly because I never seriously thought to pursue that kind of work … I think the main reason for [tossing my hat in the ring] was in the hopes that, because of the experiences I have had the good fortune to have had in my career, I might have something of value to offer the orchestra.

What’s your music background?
I have been a freelance trumpet player since the early 1980s, but I have also had a parallel career working as a drummer, guitarist, bassist, wind synthesist, composer, arranger and producer. In other words, I have a problem with focusing.

EMSO’s season continues through May, including a final concert with an all-Beethoven theme. To find a full schedule and learn more, visit emsorch.org