At the Youth Symphony of Denton, we are fortunate to collaborate with a diverse group of esteemed guest conductors and music educators throughout the year. In addition to our principal conductors, these talented individuals bring fresh perspectives, new techniques, and invaluable expertise to our ensemble. Their leadership enhances the musical experience, providing our young musicians with a broader range of artistic inspiration and opportunities for growth. We are proud to offer our students the chance to work with such a variety of musical professionals, helping them to develop their skills and broaden their understanding of orchestral performance.

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Hank Chang
Music Director, Conductor

Mr. Chang, the Music Director and Conductor of the Symphony Orchestra, has an extensive background in violin and viola performance as well as orchestral conducting, having received his education in Korea, Europe, and at the University of North Texas. Throughout his studies, he has had the privilege of learning from numerous distinguished musicians across these regions.
With a career spanning over 25 years, Mr. Chang has played viola in prominent symphony orchestras, taught string instruments at the university level, organized international music festivals, and conducted orchestras at various levels of proficiency. Most recently, he has served as the conductor of the Ascolti Korean Chamber Orchestra in his native Korea, and has spent many years working with the Sunsim Benedict Youth Orchestra.
Mr. Chang is passionate about working with young musicians and has long aspired to establish a Youth Symphony in Denton since returning to the United States in 2017. His goal is to share his profound love of classical music with the students in the Denton area.
He is married to See-Eun, a choir director, and together they have two sons, Johan and Daehan, both of whom are avid violinists.

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Damia Cleaver
Executive Director, Conductor

​Mrs. Cleaver has over 20 years of experience as a private instructor, with the last decade dedicated to teaching within the Denton Independent School District.
As the Executive Director of the Youth Symphony, Mrs. Cleaver is the driving force behind its success, overseeing all aspects of the organization’s operations. In addition to her leadership role, she serves as the conductor and instructor for both the String and Beginning Orchestras.
Passionate about nurturing young musicians, Mrs. Cleaver is committed to providing students with a strong foundation in their musical journeys. A proud native of Denton, she is married to Victor, a multi-instrumentalist skilled in percussion, guitar, bass, and piano. Together, they have two adult children, Emily and Matthew.

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Board Chair
Robin Perkins

Secretary
Robin Oh

Treasurer
​Jeff Perkins

Denton ISD Representative
Matt Preston

UNT Representative
Simon Gollo

Members at Large
​Liliana Wright
Lara Ruzevic

If you are interested in serving on the Board, please contact Board Chair Robin Perkins (281) 299-6678
​or Executive Director Damia Cleaver at (940) 390-5956.

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