Jeffrey A. Reed, music director of Orchestra Kentucky since its founding in 2000, blends classical and popular music, creating authentic experiences that celebrate the soundtracks of music’s greatest decades. His programming spans from the 17th century to the present, honoring milestones and anniversaries of composers such as Beethoven, Mahler, and Stravinsky, alongside icons like Elvis, The Beatles, and The Carpenters.
Reed’s impressive career includes collaborations with renowned artists such as Air Supply, Bill Gaither, B.J. Thomas, Larry Gatlin, Paul Williams, Peter Tork, Glen Campbell, Keith Emerson, Neil Sedaka, Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr., Mary Wilson, and Melissa Manchester. He has conducted orchestras in Milan, Italy; St. Petersburg, Russia; and South Korea, and has appeared twice with the Royal Philharmonic at London’s Royal Albert Hall at the specific request of Neil Sedaka.
In the United States, Reed has conducted numerous orchestras, including those in Alabama, Augusta, Charleston, Detroit, Greensboro, Knoxville, Louisville, Memphis, Nashville, Omaha, Phoenix, Portland, South Bend, and Winston-Salem.
A champion of new works, Reed has been involved in commissioning world premieres from legendary pop artists like Neil Sedaka, Keith Emerson, Peter Tork, Jimmy Webb, and Italian sensation Giovanni Allevi. His innovative programming has garnered national recognition, with bestselling author and marketer Seth Godin highlighting Reed in his book Small is the New Big. Godin praised Reed’s “clever” concerts and noted his “totally different way” of approaching programming, making him the only musician featured in the study.
In 2015, the University of Louisville honored Reed as its Alumni Fellow for the School of Music, recognizing his distinguished contributions to the field. Additionally, he received the Jefferson Award for public service in South Central Kentucky in 2008.
Through his artistry and vision, Jeffrey A. Reed continues to inspire audiences and revive the memories that music can evoke.
Artist’s Statement
It is an immense honor to be recognized for my life’s work, especially as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of Orchestra Kentucky, which I co-founded with a close friend. Our vision for establishing the orchestra was to contribute positively to our community and enhance the quality of life in our home. I have dedicated myself to this mission, and now, as the leader of a performing arts center that includes three resident companies—Orchestra Kentucky, Ramsey Theatre Company, and BG OnStage—I take great pride in what my team has accomplished in Bowling Green. This award serves as a meaningful affirmation of our efforts.
I believe our work in Warren County plays a crucial role in making Kentucky a better place to live, work, and visit. We strive to create a vibrant artistic environment that enriches our community and uplifts those who engage with us. In my role as president and CEO of Arts of Southern Kentucky, I lead a dedicated team of about 25 full-time employees, over 100 part-time staff, independent contractors, and countless volunteers. My goal is to inspire and encourage everyone involved to strive for excellence and to impact the lives of people in our community through the arts.
Art is essential to the human experience; it is one of God’s greatest creations. My role is to enrich lives and provide entertainment, echoing Billy Joel’s sentiment in “Piano Man,” where he highlights the arts as a means for people to escape their worries. Life can be challenging, and the arts offer a respite—a glimpse of beauty and hope that lifts our spirits.
Among my proudest achievements is not only co-founding Orchestra Kentucky, Arts of Southern Kentucky, and the Ramsey Theatre Company but also conducting renowned artists like Neil Sedaka and leading the Royal Philharmonic at London’s Albert Hall, experiences that stand as pinnacles of my career.
To non-Kentuckians, I hope my work conveys that South Central Kentucky is a hub of talent and creativity. Our region, influenced by its proximity to Nashville, Louisville, and Evansville, attracts high-caliber artists from a wide area. Visitors will be impressed by the quality and diversity of the artistic expressions flourishing here. Together, we are cultivating a vibrant arts community that reflects the richness of our culture and enhances the lives of everyone involved.