A Visionary Conductor Building Community Through Music
At Symphony of the Rockies, we believe that music has the power to transform lives and bring communities together. Our mission is to make orchestral music accessible to everyone, and at the heart of this vision is the leadership of our conductor, Devin Patrick Hughes, whose commitment to reimagining the role of orchestras has made a lasting impact.
From a Passion for Music to Leading Orchestras Across the Globe
Devin’s journey began in Springfield, Illinois, where he grew up surrounded by both music and public service. With a mother who was a nurse and social worker and a father who served on a symphony board, music was a constant presence in his life. Although initially pursuing a pre-med and music double major at Grinnell College, it wasn’t long before Devin realized that his true passion lay in conducting.
After organizing a student orchestra to perform Beethoven’s 7th Symphony, his path was set. He continued his studies in conducting across the U.S. and Europe, including in Vienna and at the University of Denver. Over the years, Devin has had the privilege of conducting orchestras across North America and Europe, in addition to competing in prestigious international competitions.
Building Community-Centered Orchestras in Colorado
Since relocating to Colorado, Devin has been instrumental in building two thriving orchestras—Symphony of the Rockies and Boulder Symphony—into organizations deeply rooted in the community. His vision for both orchestras goes beyond just performing concerts; it’s about creating spaces where music connects people, uplifts voices, and enhances lives.
Under Devin’s leadership, Symphony of the Rockies has created immersive, inclusive, and emotionally resonant concerts that not only entertain but also reflect the values of the community it serves. Through collaborations with local artists, performances for diverse audiences, and community outreach programs, these orchestras have become integral to the fabric of life in Colorado.
Overcoming Challenges and Innovating Through Adversity
The road to success has not been without its challenges. In the early days of both orchestras, Devin faced tight budgets, small rehearsal spaces, and the task of building support from the ground up. But with determination and creative problem-solving, these obstacles became opportunities for growth and innovation.
When the pandemic halted live performances, the orchestras adapted by launching digital programs and outreach initiatives that brought music to senior homes, food banks, and even parking lots. These efforts helped strengthen the community bond and reinforced the belief that orchestral music can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
A Focus on Accessible Music Education
Beyond conducting, Devin is also deeply committed to accessible music education. Through the Boulder Symphony Music Academy, thousands of students have had the opportunity to study music regardless of income. The Academy’s outreach programs and school partnerships continue to provide young people with the tools to explore their musical potential, helping to ensure that classical music remains a vital part of our culture for generations to come.
A Community-Oriented Approach to Leadership
What sets Devin’s leadership apart is his focus on building orchestras that reflect the communities they serve. He works not only to grow the artistic quality of the organizations but also their financial and cultural impact. By designing programs that engage with relevant themes and creating partnerships with local organizations, Devin ensures that Symphony of the Rockies and Boulder Symphony remain accessible and meaningful to all.
Defining Success Beyond the Concert Hall
For Devin, success isn’t just about having a full concert hall—it’s about the connection between the music and the audience. Success is seeing a child’s eyes light up during their first symphony, or watching someone realize that orchestral music speaks to their own experiences. It's about making orchestral music relevant and inclusive, and ensuring that it continues to inspire and transform communities.
Stay Connected with Symphony of the Rockies
We invite you to explore more about the work being done at Symphony of the Rockies and our mission to bring music to everyone, regardless of background or experience. Explore our website for upcoming events, educational programs, and more.
At Symphony of the Rockies, we’re proud to be part of an ongoing effort to make orchestral music a vibrant and accessible part of our community. Stay tuned for more updates, concerts, and exciting collaborations as we continue to build and grow.
