Composition Alumni Spotlight

Born in Taiwan and raised in a small town in Arkansas, Taiwanese-American conductor Jerry Hou had a late start in music. Beginning on trombone in middle school band, Hou went on to work professionally as a trombonist in American and European orchestras before his playing career was ended by injury. Turning to conducting studies with Jorma Panula in Finland, he is now recognized for his dynamic presence, insightful interpretations, versatility and commanding technique on the podium.

In 2021, Hou began working with the New York Philharmonic and their music director Jaap van Zweden, and conducted the orchestra in the tuning of the newly renovated David Geffen Hall. Hou continues to serve as an assistant conductor and made his debut with the orchestra this past spring. He was immediately reengaged and will lead a Young People’s Concert in January 2023 along with six educational concerts.

Hou recently concluded his successful tenure as Resident Conductor of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the first person in the orchestra’s history to hold that title, and Music Director of the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra. He conducted the ASO in classical, family, and education concerts, and this past March, made his official subscription debut in a program of music by Joan Tower, Jessie Montgomery, and Bela Bartok. Committed to developing the Atlanta music community, Hou created a Second Atlanta School of Composers, featuring native Atlantans, Carlos Simon, Joel Thompson, Viet Cuong, Sarah Gibson, TJ Cole, and Elise Arancio. He worked closely with these composers and performed their music in concerts and recordings. Hou returns to the ASO this season for another subscription concert.  He also served as Resident Conductor of the Grand Teton Music Festival for eight summers.