Conductor
Stuart Chafetz is the Principal Pops Conductor of the Columbus Symphony and Principal Pops Conductor of the Chautauqua and Marin Symphonies. Chafetz, a conductor celebrated for his dynamic and engaging podium presence, is increasingly in demand with orchestras across the continent. This season Chafetz will be on the podium in Detroit, Naples, Buffalo, Kansas City, Vancouver, and Seattle. He enjoys a special relationship with The Phoenix Symphony where he leads multiple programs annually.
Chafetz’s original programs are a signature of his artistic profile. His popular programs including “Symphonic Genesis & Phil Collins” and “Totally 80’s” showcase the orchestra in an especially entertaining way and attract large audiences throughout North America. Chafetz previously held posts as resident conductor of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and associate conductor of the Louisville Orchestra. As principal timpanist of the Honolulu Symphony for 20 years, Chafetz also conducted the annual Nutcracker performances with Ballet Hawaii and principals from the American Ballet Theatre.
Chafetz makes his home near San Francisco, CA, with his wife, Ann Krinitsky. Chafetz holds a bachelor’s degree in music performance from the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati and a master’s from the Eastman School of Music.
