Jim Bates, Ph.D.

About Jim

Jim Bates is Director of Orchestral Activities at Otterbein University in Columbus, Ohio and serves as an assistant conductor for the Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras (2006-present). He was a conductor for the Louisville (KY) Youth Orchestras (1983-2001), serving as music director from 1996-2001.

He has served as a clinician or guest conductor throughout North America, including an active involvement with ASTA at the state and national levels. He has served as president of Ky ASTA and currently serves as the president of the Ohio chapter of ASTA. He serves on the National Board of Directors of Classical Mandolin Society of America, and is chair of their educational initiative.

Bates is assistant conductor and principal bassist of the Westerville Symphony (OH), and a member of The Early Interval, Columbus' professional early music ensemble.