MURRAY SYMPHONY CONDUCTORS
Michelle Willis
Musical Director, Principal Conductor
Michelle graduated from Boise State University in Choral Music Education and has been conducting choirs and orchestras for over 20 years. Music is her lifeblood and she is never happier than when she is making music with others who find joy in the experience. She loves composing, teaching, day hikes and reading. She and her husband have four children.
Jim Thompson
Associate Conductor
Jim has been a part of the music scene in Salt Lake for 35+ years. Playing mainly bass, he can also play piano, guitar and viola! Jim loves the aesthetics of the great outdoors including, hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, kayaking, bird watching, and studying the geology of Southern Utah's red rock country.
Ernest J. Nielsen
Assistant Conductor
Ernest J. (Ernie) Nielsen has been the Musical Director of community orchestras and choirs across Utah and California. He earned a Master’s Degree in Choral Conducting from Brigham Young University and recently retired from a career in finance and international project management consulting.