Ottumwa Symphony Welcomes New Director

We are thrilled to welcome Jaymes Winn as the new director of our very own Ottumwa Symphony Youth Orchestra!

Jaymes graduated from Northern Michigan University in December of 2024 with a Bachelor’s of Music Education. During her time there, she primarily studied violin but also took private lessons in cello, bass, piano, voice, and bassoon. She participated in several ensembles both instrumental and vocal, throughout her time at university. Jaymes completed her student teaching with the Traverse City Area Public Schools in Traverse City, Michigan. After graduation, she transitioned into a part-time middle and high school orchestra position with the same district.

Jaymes has recently completed her first year with the Ottumwa Community School District as an Elementary Music Teacher for both Horace Mann Elementary and Eisenhower Elementary, where she does K-5 general music instruction. Additionally, Jaymes joined the Ottumwa Symphony Orchestra this past February as a second violinist.

“I really look forward to working with the older students of the Ottumwa area who have a deep passion for playing, and I am ecstatic to be a part of their musical journey. I am ready to hit the ground running in this new position and make the Youth Orchestra a place where young musicians want to play, play, play!”