About Us
Thomas Elefant
Thomas Elefant founded the Handel Festival Orchestra in 2009. He previously served as musical director of the Inter-Generation Symphony, Israel (2000-2006), The Richmond Symphony Orchestra, Indiana (1985-1997), and the Missoula Symphony Orchestra, MT (1980-1985). He also served as assistant conductor of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and the Israeli Army Band. Mr. Elefant studied conducting with Thomas Baldner, Igor Markevitch, and Otto-Werner Mueller. He has participated in the Tanglewood Conductors' Program, Academia Chigiana Musicale in Italy, and the Jerusalem Symphony Conductors' Program. In addition, he is a musician in his own right playing the viola, violin, French horn, and baritone horn.
Maestro Elefant holds a Masters of Music in Conducting from Indiana University and a Bachelor in Music Education from New York University. He has also studied Theory and Composition at the Jerusalem Academy of Music.
THE MISSION
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To present live concerts to the public, showcasing the unique lyricism, sweeping emotions, and romantic sense of mood in G.F. Handel's music.
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To train advanced amateur musicians and young aspiring professional musicians while fostering a love of orchestral playing.
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To bring live music to senior centers, nursing homes, and hospitals where elder residents can enjoy concerts.
Volunteers
Kristina Fischer-Dieskau
Ritalynne Brechner
Brian McGlynn
Solomon Briks
Albert Mitchell
Jacob Garniez