Don Scott Carpenter — Press Kit

About Don Scott Carpenter

Don Scott Carpenter is a distinguished conductor, composer, and organist whose career bridges the worlds of choral, orchestral, and sacred music. Based in San Francisco, he has emerged as one of the most versatile and respected figures in American music — known for his dynamic podium presence, imaginative programming, and commitment to both tradition and innovation. Carpenter serves as Founding Music Director of the Zephyr Symphony and Founding Music Director of Vox Humana SF. His work unites artistry, education, and community-building in ways that make classical music accessible, relevant, and transformative. Read complete bio.

Professional Summary

  • Title: Conductor, Composer, Organist

  • Base: San Francisco, California

  • Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky

  • Primary Roles:

    • Founding Music Director, Zephyr Symphony

    • Founding Music Director, Vox Humana SF

  • Education: Degrees in Conducting, Sacred Music, and Organ

  • Genres: Symphonic, Choral, Contemporary, Sacred, and Crossover

Artistic Philosophy

“Music should not simply be performed — it should be experienced as a conversation across time. My mission is to connect people through sound: the listener to the composer, the past to the present, and the individual to the community.” Carpenter’s conducting is characterized by clarity, empathy, and deep musical insight. His programming often pairs monumental masterworks with contemporary voices — illuminating timeless human themes in new and relevant ways. Through Zephyr Symphony and Vox Humana SF, he continues to redefine what a modern performing arts organization can be: imaginative, collaborative, and rooted in community.

Recent & Upcoming Projects

  • Zephyr Symphony — Messiah, December 2025

  • Zephyr Symphony — Elijah, March 2026

  • Vox Humana SF — In Praise & Protest, March 2026

  • Zephyr Symphony — Spring, April 2026

  • Podcast Host — To Forte and Beyond, exploring artistry, emotion, and the creative life

Press Quotes

“Carpenter’s conducting maintained a balance that allowed the attentive listener to relish both the overall ensemble and a host of significant passages reflecting the diversity of the instrumental sonorities.” - Stephen Smoliar

“Carpenter brings a rare combination of technical mastery and emotional sincerity — a conductor who listens as deeply as he leads.” — San Francisco Classical Voice

“His programming is bold yet deeply human, pairing tradition and innovation in ways that reawaken audiences to the power of live music.” — Choral Journal

“Every concert under Carpenter’s direction feels like an invitation — intimate, visionary, and profoundly musical.” — Bay Area Reporter

“He played deftly.” — Courier Journal

Recordings

Mozart: Symphony No. 41 in C Major (FALL 2025 release)

Beethoven: Symphony No. 5 in C minor

Schubert: Mass No. 6 in E-flat

O Sing Joyfully

Media Contact

For Interviews, Bookings, and Press Requests:
📧 press@zephyrsymphony.org
📞 (415) 215-8705
📍 San Francisco, California

Brand Assets

Photos & Headshots

Logos & Visuals

Downloads

  • Full Press Kit (PDF)

  • Bio – 200 words

  • Bio – 500 words

  • Fact Sheet (1-page)

  • High-Res Photos

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