Kenneth Freed is beginning his second season as the music director and conductor of the Mankato Symphony Orchestra. Ken joined the Symphony after nearly eight years with the Minnesota Orchestra. A violist, he was also appointed a Minnesota Orchestra assistant conductor for the 2005-06 concert season. Since his arrival in Minnesota, he has been music director of the Kenwood Symphony Orchestra.

Prior to 1998, Freed was a member of the Manhattan String Quartet and also performed with the New York Philharmonic as a substitute in the viola section. From 1992-1994 he was principal violist of the Richmond Symphony. In addition, Freed served as conductor of the Norwalk, Connecticut Youth Symphony for two years and was assistant conductor of the Greater Richmond Youth Symphony.

His interest in children's music education has led him to found a non-profit company, Learning Through Music Consulting Group, which seeks to put music at the center of all children's education.

Ken Freed holds degrees in literature and music from Yale University. He and his wife Gwen have three children.

We wish Ken much success as he begins his career as music director and conductor of the Mankato Symphony. Please join us in welcoming him to our community.