Todd Craven is a distinguished American conductor known for his innovative programming, engaging podium presence, and commitment to fostering collaboration within the musical community. As he enters his fourth season as Music Director/Conductor of the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra and his eighth season as Artistic Director of the Orlando Contemporary Chamber Orchestra, Craven continues to enhance audience engagement and champion the evolution of symphonic music in the 21st century. His creative approach introduces orchestral works to diverse audiences, making classical music accessible and relevant to contemporary life.

Craven’s recent engagements include performances with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and the Orlando Philharmonic, where he has built positive relationships through multiple appearances. His debut with the Orlando Philharmonic at the Concert at the Springs led to subsequent re-engagements, including Symphony of Illusions with Michael Grandinetti and a collaboration with Jamie Bernstein at Steinmetz Hall. Additionally, Craven conducted Handel’s Messiah with the Jacksonville Symphony and led a series of sold-out holiday concerts with The Florida Orchestra in Tampa.

A versatile artist, Craven has shared the stage with renowned musicians such as operatic tenor Lawrence Brownlee, violinist Rachel Barton Pine, and pianist Ann-Marie McDermott. Todd has been integral in his support of recording projects with Eric Jacobsen, Gil Shaham, and Béla Fleck alongside the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, demonstrating his dedication to both tradition and innovation in classical music.

This season, Craven’s engagements include appearances with the Anderson Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra Indiana, and the Goiânia Symphony Orchestra in Brazil, alongside continued work with the Orlando Philharmonic. His previous guest conducting includes performances with the Detroit Symphony, Toledo Symphony, Edmonton Symphony, Peabody Symphony Orchestra, and members of the Baltimore Symphony brass, among others.

A winner of the 2019 Los Angeles Conducting Competition, Craven previously served as Associate Conductor of the Buffalo Philharmonic, Assistant Conductor for the Florida Grand Opera, and Music Director of the University of Michigan Life Sciences Orchestra and Michigan Pops Orchestra. Before transitioning to conducting, Craven enjoyed a successful career as a prize-winning trumpet player, serving as Principal Trumpet of the Sarasota Orchestra and performing with renowned ensembles such as the New York Philharmonic and Cincinnati Symphony.

Mr Craven’s mentors include Kenneth Kiesler at the University of Michigan and Marin Alsop at the Peabody Conservatory. Other conducting mentors include Donald Schleicher, Larry Rachleff, JoAnn Falletta and William Wiedrich.