Tom Phelps became the third Artistic Director and Conductor of the Meridian Symphony in 2003. An accomplished musician and conductor, Tom also taught music in public schools for many years. Under his able leadership, the Symphony expanded its performance schedule to other venues in the Treasure Valley.
Tom was the driving force behind the creation of a Young Artist Competition, which each spring showcases some of the area’s most talented young musicians in performance with the Meridian Symphony. Tom’s contribution to the growth of the Symphony is immeasurable.
Dr. Tom Phelps is well known as a performer and conductor. He recently retired from many years of service as conductor and artistic director of the Meridian Symphony. He earned his B.M.E. and M.A. at Idaho State University and his Ph.D. in music from the University of Utah. Tom has taught band and choir in the public schools and is an accomplished conductor, singer and instrumentalist. He currently works with Opera Idaho Orchestra as conductor and is the manager of the Kings of Swing Big Band. He has performed with many artists including Bob Hope, Lou Rawls, Ray Price, Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, the Diamonds and many others. In addition to having played woodwinds in dozens of Boise Music Week productions,Tom has conducted the orchestra for Music Week’s Sound of Music, Annie, Peter Pan, Meet Me In St. Louis, and Most Happy Fella, and The Secret Garden.