Kaleb Benda

Kaleb Benda is an American conductor driven by an artistic mission to connect with audiences through entertaining, educating, and enriching performances. Through dynamic score interpretations, a charismatic presence on the podium, and innovative programming, Benda has made classical music relevant with communities and led ensembles to new artistic levels. He currently serves as Music Director of the Oklahoma Chamber Symphony, Assistant Conductor of the Enid Symphony Orchestra, and Music Director of the Oklahoma Christian University Chamber Orchestra.

With a career spanning performances across the United States and Hungary, Benda is also a champion of new music. He has premiered works by composers such as Nico Muhly, Clint Williams, and Dr. Daniel Adams, including the Oklahoma Chamber Symphony’s commission of Greenwood, Archer & Pine to commemorate the Tulsa Race Massacre centennial. He established a Composer-in-Residence program and regularly integrates new music into his programming. A dedicated educator, Benda works with youth and university musicians, directs the Oklahoma Christian University Chamber Orchestra, and mentors underserved communities through initiatives like student play-in concerts and collaborations with Oklahoma Chamber Symphony musicians.

Benda’s contributions to the field have earned him third prize for The American Prize in Conducting and Programming in 2023, recognition as a finalist from 2016–2022, and a Next Gen under 30 Award in 2021 for his efforts to make classical music accessible. He holds a Master of Music in Conducting from Oklahoma City University and a degree in Music Education from the University of North Texas. His mentors include Alexander Mickelthwate, Jeffrey Grogan, and Douglas Newell.