DALLAS - s4story -- The New Texas Symphony Orchestra (NTSO) is proud to announce Dr. Michelle Perrin Blair as its new Artistic Director and Conductor, effective August 1, 2025. An American Prize-winning conductor, Dr. Blair succeeds Dr. Kathryn D. Brownlee, the orchestra's founding director, who led the 80-musician, all-volunteer ensemble through 21 years of remarkable growth and success.

Dr. Brownlee leaves a lasting legacy, having built the NTSO into a beloved organization known for championing underrepresented composers—especially women and composers of color—while honoring classical traditions. Through FREE community concerts across DFW, the orchestra has made classical music both accessible and essential.

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"I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Blair to the NTSO family," said Dr. Brownlee. "Her talent, energy, and vision will take the orchestra to new heights. She's magnetic on and off the podium, and I know our audiences will be captivated by her musicality and spirit."

Dr. Blair is a bold force in classical music, known for expanding its boundaries through work in symphony, musical theatre, and contemporary performance. A champion of new music and inclusivity, she has helped reshape the classical scene in Texas and beyond.

"I am a native Texan," said Dr. Blair, "so fostering community music making in my home state is extremely important to me. I am honored to build on Dr. Brownlee's legacy, and I am very excited to implement a new vision going forward that also honors the incredible foundation of this organization. And we're going to have a lot of fun!"

Her accomplishments include serving as Principal Guest Conductor of the American Festival for the Arts and as a featured clinician for the Texas Private School Music Educators Association. She has recorded multiple albums with the Durward Contemporary Chamber Music Ensemble, conducted at the Texas New Music Festival, and led collaborations with the interdisciplinary arts organization, Emerge Arts Coalition.

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Dr. Blair's appointment follows a thorough and thoughtful search conducted by a committee led by Steven Couch, member of the NTSO Board of Directors. The committee sought a visionary with exceptional musical talent and a strong commitment to community engagement—qualities Dr. Blair has exemplified throughout her career.

"Dr. Blair's unique blend of artistry and vision will be the perfect catalyst for the NTSO's next chapter," said Steven Couch, NTSO Board Member. "She's already bringing exciting new ideas, and we're eager to see how her leadership will guide us into the future."

With Dr. Blair at the helm, the New Texas Symphony Orchestra is poised for a vibrant future—full of growth, innovation, and unforgettable performances across North Texas and beyond.