In this episode host Aaron Switzer sits down with Dr Travis Allen, Executive Director of the Central Oregon Symphony Association. A Bend native, cellist, educator, and arts leader, Dr Allen shares his journey from studying cello performance and musicology to returning home to build a career in Central Oregon’s classical music community. He discusses his work as a performer, teacher at Central Oregon Community College, and his leadership role guiding the symphony after years of involvement in local music education and performance.

The conversation explores the role of a community orchestra, the challenges and opportunities of growing a classical music audience in Bend, and the importance of accessibility in the arts. Dr Allen highlights outreach efforts like Music in Public Places, youth engagement programs, and the symphony’s pay what you can model, all of which aim to make classical music more inclusive and relevant to Central Oregon’s evolving community.