LEXINGTON-CONCORD COURIER – Dr. Robert “Gabe” Southard has begun his tenure as music director of the Lexington-based Metropolitan Wind Symphony, leading its season-opening concert Nov. 1.
The 60-plus-member ensemble opened its 56th season at the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library on Marrett Road with “There’s a First Time for Everything.”
According to MetWinds’ concert listing, the program featured the first works written or arranged for band by composers John Mackey, Frank Ticheli and Dana Wilson, alongside Gustav Holst’s “First Suite in E-flat.”
The ensemble’s appointment announcement says Southard was selected after six finalists guest conducted concerts between summer 2025 and May 2026.
Southard joined Gordon College’s faculty in 2022 and conducts its Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Band. He previously served as associate professor of music and director of bands at Hope College in Michigan.
He earned his doctorate in musical arts in conducting from Michigan State University. His work as an orchestrator includes a wind ensemble arrangement of Rimsky-Korsakov’s Symphony No. 2, “Antar.” A flutist, he has also served as principal flute of the Holland Symphony Orchestra and became a Pearl Flute Artist in 2020.
Upon his appointment, Southard said he looked forward to continuing MetWinds’ reputation for excellence and introducing new program ideas.
The ensemble next performs Saturday, Dec. 5, at St. John of Damascus Church, 300 West St. in Dedham, for its annual Holiday Pops concert.
Guest conductor Mark Olson will lead the 7 p.m. performance. A cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres begins at 6 p.m., with desserts and coffee following the concert.
The church’s ticket page lists adult admission at $20. Children 15 and younger attend free. Tickets can be purchased online.
