Recent CCM alumnus wins major position with Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra

Jones finished his degree at CCM last spring, during which he studied with CSO Principal Bass Owen Lee. Before attending CCM he received an undergraduate degree from the Eastman School and completed the Advanced Performance Studies at Bard College Conservatory. In addition to Lee, Jones names Leigh Mesh and James VanDemark as some of his primary teachers.

The CSO has programmed an extremely engaging 2022-23 season, and Jones says that he is eager to perform the exciting repertoire. He is particularly looking forward to performing the Mahler symphonies, as well as Strauss, Tchaikovsky and Rouse. Learn more about the CSO’s current performance season. As he prepares for upcoming concerts, Jones draws inspiration from many sources, including the beauty he sees while mountain biking, literature and music. “All of that goes into one big pot that I pull from when I’m preparing.”

CSO’s President and CEO Jonathan Martin commended Jones and his fellow new appointees: “Each of these musicians won highly competitive auditions,” he said, “joining the ranks of the exceptional players who make up the CSO.” Jones spoke of his success, saying “it’s a patchwork of so many years of assistance, and I am just so thankful for [my many teachers and friends]. I owe so much of it to them.”

Prior to his appointment with the CSO, Jones attended the Chautauqua Institution summer music festival, first in 2017, and again in 2018. This is his first position in a major orchestra. Additional information on Jones and his fellow appointees can be found on the CSO website.