BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) – Jeffrey Reed, music director and founder of Orchestra Kentucky and the Ramsey Theater Company, will retire from his conducting role during the 2026-27 season after 26 years leading the organization.
SKyPAC announced Reed’s retirement Tuesday, marking the end of a musical era in Bowling Green.
“I remember 2001 after the twin towers collapsed we had a special concert for the Red Cross. Going with the orchestra to the Governor’s Mansion was a real honor, and personally it’s just opened up so many things for me,” Reed said. “Like, conducting for Neil Sedaka and Mary Wilson, I did many of their concerts, getting to go to London and then conducted the Royal Albert Hall is certainly a career milestone. Lot of… lot of great things over 26 years.”
Reed has served as president and CEO of SKyPAC since 2020 while continuing his role as Orchestra Kentucky’s music director.
“Working two jobs, I’ve been the president and CEO of SKyPAC and being the music director for Orchestra Kentucky, that’s more than I really could handle and do well, and I felt like Orchestra Kentucky deserves somebody who could give all their attention to the orchestra,” Reed said.
Reed will continue in his role leading SKyPAC after stepping away from the conductor’s podium.
“I’m looking forward to just being an audience member. I’ve always said I have the best seat in the house on the podium. There’s nothing like having 60 professional musicians play in front of you,” Reed said. “It’s something that I wish everyone could imagine and experience, but it’s also enjoyable to not have any of the worries. I mean, you’re working up there, and I just want to sit down and enjoy it.”
Reed said a committee has been created to find the next director of Orchestra Kentucky and the Ramsey Theater Company. They plan to take their time and make sure the conductor’s baton is passed to the best person for the job.
Copyright 2025 WBKO. All rights reserved.