James Welsch named Director of Orchestral Studies at Pacific Lutheran University and Music Director of Kirkland Civic Orchestra

Since moving to the Pacific Northwest, I’ve been fortunate to see my professional life develop in several exciting directions. In 2024, I joined the Tacoma Youth Symphony Association (TYSA) as Music Director, beginning a new chapter working with an outstanding community of young musicians and their families. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to lead the Tacoma Youth Symphony and Symphony Tacoma in a wide range of repertoire and educational initiatives while helping shape the organization’s artistic and educational vision.

In 2026, I expanded my work in the region with two new appointments. I joined the faculty of Pacific Lutheran University as Director of Orchestral Studies and conductor of the PLU Symphony Orchestra, where I’m enjoying the opportunity to work with university musicians and develop programs that connect students with a broad range of musical voices and perspectives. I was also appointed Music Director of the Kirkland Civic Orchestra, beginning with the 2026–27 season, allowing me to continue building relationships with musicians and audiences throughout the Greater Seattle region.

It has been an incredibly rewarding transition to the PNW. Each of these appointments offers a different opportunity to teach, conduct, collaborate, and build musical community, and I’m grateful that the connections and experiences that began during my years at Stetson continue to shape the work I’m doing today.