The Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center (SKYPAC) and its resident companies, Orchestra Kentucky and the Ramsey Theatre Company, are happy to welcome Joseph L. Trafton, Jr. as he officially begins his new role as Music Director of Orchestra Kentucky.
A Bowling Green native, Trafton attended Warren Central High School before pursuing advanced musical studies and launching an international conducting career that has spanned more than two decades. Now, he returns home to lead the orchestra that serves the community where his musical journey began.
As only the second Music Director in Orchestra Kentucky's 27-year history, Trafton follows founding Music Director Jeff Reed, whose remarkable leadership and vision shaped the organization from its beginning. Reed, who led the orchestra for 26 years, will continue serving as President & CEO of SKYPAC, providing ongoing executive leadership for the organization and its resident companies.
Most recently, Trafton completed an eight-season tenure as Music Director of the Hagen Philharmonic Orchestra and Theater Hagen in Germany. There, he provided artistic leadership for a full-scale performing arts center producing symphonic concerts, operas, ballets, and musical theatre. He oversaw programming, casting, auditions, and community engagement initiatives while conducting a wide range of repertoire. His work earned him a 2025 nomination for Conductor of the Year by Opernwelt magazine.
After conducting orchestras around the world, Trafton is excited to return to South Central Kentucky and take his place on the Orchestra Kentucky podium. His debut as Music Director will be A Magical, Musical & Aerial Extravaganza on Saturday, Aug, 22, featuring internationally acclaimed violinist, vocalist, aerialist, and America's Got Talent alum Janice Martin. Blending the power of a live symphony with breathtaking aerial artistry, the performance promises to be an unforgettable evening and a spectacular way to usher in this exciting new chapter for Orchestra Kentucky.
SKYPAC and Orchestra Kentucky invite the community to welcome Joseph home, celebrate his first concert as Music Director, and experience this one-of-a-kind performance.