YOUNGSTOWN, OH (June 6, 2024): The Youngstown Symphony Society Board has unanimously approved the recommendation of the Music Director Search Committee to appoint Maestro Sergey Bogza as the next music director of the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra (YSO).

Maestro Bogza will officially begin his initial three year term as Music Director on July 1, 2024. As music director, Bogza will be responsible for conducting the orchestra, growing its artistic excellence, planning seasons and programming, increasing opportunities, and promoting arts and culture in and around the Mahoning Valley.

Bogza was born in Russia into a Russian-Ukrainian family and emigrated to the United States in 1995. He holds a Masters of Music degree in orchestral conducting from Central Washington University and a Doctorate of Musical Arts degree in orchestral conducting from the University of Minnesota.

In addition to being the Music Director of the YSO, Maestro will continue as Music Director of the Panama City Symphony in Panama City, Florida. Bogza has held Music Director positions with the Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra, Willmar Symphony, and Heartland Symphony Orchestra.

Bogza has significant experience leading orchestras for opera and ballet, in addition to leading concert repertoire. His energy and artistic integrity are highly regarded by audiences and musicians alike. He has been awarded top prizes at international conducting competitions and is an active composer of symphonic and chamber music. Combining the roles of a conductor and a composer, Bogza has premiered works across the United States and Europe.

Off the podium, Bogza is an endurance athlete who regularly competes in ultra-marathons and long-distance bike rides. Having won gold medals and finished over a dozen races, his future aspirations include competing for The Triple Crown and Badwater135. Bogza trains with his two Belgian Malinois dogs, Samson and Stella. When Bogza is not on the podium or the race course, he is found in the kitchen mastering the culinary art of Slavic cuisine.
Maestro Bogza shared: “I am deeply honored and thrilled to be chosen as the next Music Director of the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra. Music has the extraordinary ability to unite communities, inspire, and touch our hearts in profound ways. I am looking forward to this new journey and creating unforgettable musical memories with the wonderful people of Youngstown.”

Maestro, the Symphony Society, and the YSO look forward to the 24 / 25 season which will open on October 5 in Edward W. Powers Auditorium at the DeYor Performing Arts Center. Prior to the opening of the season, two special events will take place. First, on July 26, the Fore the Arts Golf Outing at the Youngstown Country Club – visit youngstownsyphony.com/events for more information. Second, in early September, a Gala will take place to launch the 24 / 25 season and formally introduce Bogza to the community. The 24 / 25 YSO season and information about the Gala will be announced soon.