University of Kansas Symphony Orchestra

Performer Details

Performer Bio Synopsis

Founded in 1904, the orchestra program at the University of Kansas is one of the oldest in the nation. As the flagship ensemble of our institution, the KU Symphony Orchestra prides itself on cultivating a culture of artistic excellence. Comprised primarily of accomplished music majors and exceptionally talented non-majors, our ensemble offers a dynamic platform for musicians to showcase their skills and collaborate in pursuit of musical mastery. At the heart of our orchestra's success is our commitment to collaboration with world-renowned guest artists and conductors, providing our members with invaluable opportunities for growth and artistic development. Selected performers have the distinct privilege of participating in captivating productions alongside the acclaimed KU Opera and KU Musical Productions.

University of Kansas Symphony Orchestra

Conductor's Bio

Creston Herron is an internationally recognized conductor, educator, and artistic leader who currently serves as the Cordelia Brown Murphy Director of Orchestral Activities at the University of Kansas and a member of the distinguished faculty at the Interlochen Arts Camp. With a growing reputation for artistic excellence and innovative leadership, Herron has emerged as one of the most sought-after conductors and music educators in the United States. He previously served as Director of Fine Arts for the Klein Independent School District in Texas and as conductor of the Campanile Orchestra at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music. In addition, he serves as a cover conductor for the Kansas City Symphony. A versatile collaborator, Herron has recently worked with internationally acclaimed artists such as violinist Blake Pouliot, Jazz at Lincoln Center lead trombonist Vincent Gardner, and double bassist Xavier Foley, to name a few. He has conducted All-State and honor orchestras in over 25 states, bringing musical inspiration to thousands of young artists across the country. Under his leadership, the University of Kansas orchestral program has experienced unprecedented growth, expanding to three orchestras. The program recently completed a major international tour and is releasing its first professional album featuring newly commissioned works for string orchestra on the internationally recognized Post Haus label. In high demand as an adjudicator and guest lecturer, Herron has presented at many of the country’s most prestigious institutions and conferences, including The Midwest Clinic, the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University, the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, the Moore School of Music at the University of Houston, Sam Houston State University, Texas Tech University, the American String Teachers Association, the League of American Orchestras, and the NAMM “Believe in Music” webinar series. He is a past president of the Texas Orchestra Directors Association and currently serves on the advisory board for The Midwest Clinic, the artistic team of Perform America TX LLC, and the board of directors of the Mid-America Performing Arts Alliance. Herron’s contributions to music education have earned him numerous awards, including the Marjorie Keller Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award from the Texas Chapter of ASTA, the Spec’s Charitable Award for Excellence in Music Education from the Houston Symphony, the 2025 Outstanding Faculty Member Award for Teaching Excellence from the University of Kansas School of Music, and designation as a KU Docking Scholar by the University of Kansas.