MEET YOUR YSO'S MUSIC DIRECTOR: MAESTRO Sergey Bogza

Sergey Bogza, has been described as “a charismatic conductor whose passion radiates from the podium” (The Virginian-Pilot), and is known for his unique approach to working with orchestras and engaging audiences on and off the podium. Equally comfortable leading productions of opera, ballet, and concert repertoire, Bogza’s 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, the premieres of his works are enthusiastically received by audiences and musical ensembles across the United States and Europe.

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 in his first season as Music Director and Conductor of the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra, Maestro Bogza is in his third year as the Music Director of the Panama City Symphony in Panama City, Florida.  He has held Music Director positions with the Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra, Willmar Symphony, and Heartland Symphony Orchestra.

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.