Ottumwa Symphony Youth Orchestra Welcomes New Conductor Anthony Muñoz

September 17, 2025 – The Ottumwa Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to announce Anthony Muñoz as the new conductor of the Ottumwa Symphony Youth Orchestra. A dynamic musician and dedicated educator, Muñoz brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for nurturing young talent.

Based in Des Moines, Iowa, Muñoz has conducted ensembles across the region, including the Youth Philharmonic of the Des Moines Symphony Academy and the pit orchestra and show band at Dallas Center-Grimes High School. He also served as Music Director for the Truro United Church of Christ, and has taught orchestra at Findley Elementary, where he was later invited to lead the district-wide Summer Strings camp for students in grades 5–12.

In addition to his teaching roles, Muñoz is a private instructor at Rieman Music, Iowa’s largest music store and lesson provider, where he has grown the cello studio by 500%. His students range in age from 5 to 85, reflecting his belief that music is for everyone.

Muñoz is an active performer with the Ottumwa Symphony Orchestra, several Des Moines-area churches, and multiple ensembles at Drake University, including the Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, String Ensembles, and Cello Choir. He currently studies cello with Dr. Ashley Sidon and piano with Dr. Nicholas Roth, and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in music education.

With his vibrant energy and commitment to musical growth, Muñoz is poised to inspire the next generation of Ottumwa’s young musicians. The orchestra is delighted to welcome him into this vital leadership role.

For questions or to sign up as a performer in the youth orchestra, contact Luke Miller, Youth Orchestra Manager via email at lmillerteacher@gmail.com or by text at 641-680-3126.