Conductor

Dr. Leonardo Perez is a dynamic and versatile conductor recognized for his expressive leadership, thoughtful programming, and commitment to guiding meaningful orchestral experiences across educational and professional settings. Currently the Conductor of the Dalhousie Symphony Orchestra, his artistic and pedagogical focus is on presenting core symphonic repertoire alongside innovative and collaborative projects.

 

His recent programming reflects a commitment to both the standard canon and a broad range of musical voices, with works ranging from Beethoven and Florence Price to Manuel de Falla and contemporary Canadian composer Jocelyn Morlock. He has also collaborated on genre-defying projects, such as the interdisciplinary performance of Ki’kwa’ju, a reimagining of Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf incorporating Mi’kma’ki storytelling and artists. In addition to his performance engagements, Dr. Perez serves as the Conducting Instructor at Dalhousie University, providing instruction and mentorship to emerging conductors.

 

An active guest conductor and clinician, Dr. Perez has appeared as Guest Conductor and Violin Soloist with Nova Sinfonia on multiple occasions. He regularly leads workshops with youth and educational programs across North America, such as the Nova Scotia Youth Orchestra and the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District Festival Orchestra. Previously, Dr. Perez served as Director of the Symphony Orchestra at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where he conducted a wide range of orchestral masterworks and contributed to the growth and visibility of the program. His early conducting experience includes the East Carolina University Symphony and Chamber Orchestras, as well as assistant conducting for ballet productions.

 

Dr. Leonardo Perez holds a Master of Music in Orchestral Conducting from East Carolina University, where he studied with Jorge Richter. He also pursued additional conducting studies with Lucinda Carver at the University of Southern California.