Joseph Young - NOSPR

Celebrated for his emotionally vivid interpretations and quiet charisma, American conductor Joseph Young draws audiences into musical experiences that are joyful, inclusive, and deeply human. 

In recent seasons, Young has made notable debuts and returns with major orchestras, earning his reputation as one of the most gifted conductors of his generation. U.S. engagements include the San Francisco Symphony, Seattle Symphony, National Symphony Orchestra, New Jersey Symphony, Milwaukee Symphony, Detroit Symphony, Tucson Symphony, Omaha Symphony, and Louisville Orchestra. His international appearances include the London Symphony Orchestra, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Orquesta Sinfónica RTVE in Madrid, Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra (NOSPR), and the Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra on tour throughout South Africa. His operatic work includes leading acclaimed productions at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Washington National Opera, and Cincinnati Opera, as well as Jeanine Tesori and Tazewell Thompson’s opera Blue at Lincoln Center. In fall of 2025, Young released an album of Joel Puckett’s Short Stories in London with the London Symphony Orchestra.

Young concluded his transformational tenure as Music Director of the Berkeley Symphony in June 2025. Across six seasons, his dynamic programming and authentic artistic presence earned both popular and critical acclaim. He is credited with expanding the orchestra’s new audiences by 40%, strengthening its commitment to commissioning, and celebrating Berkeley’s identity through partnerships with local arts groups and composers.

Young brings the same thoughtful approach to his work with leading educational and artistic institutions. He serves as Artistic Director of Ensembles at the Peabody Conservatory and sits on the board of New Music USA. From 2017 to 2023, he held a leadership role with Carnegie Hall's Weill Music Institute and National Youth Orchestra programs, culminating in his Carnegie Hall debut and an NYO2 tour of the Dominican Republic.