
Carl Topilow, music director of the Firelands Symphony Orchestra in Huron, Ohio.
In Tuesday’s (1/28) Beacon (Port Clinton, Ohio), Sherry Trusty writes, “Firelands Symphony Orchestra (FSO) audiences have the rare treat of experiencing musical performances led by a world-renowned conductor. FSO Music Director and Conductor Carl Topilow has conducted orchestras around the world … and right here in Northwest Ohio…. Topilow’s early passion and skill inspired him to join a community orchestra when he was just 11 … Topilow’s passion took him to the Manhattan School of Music, where he graduated with a degree in clarinet performance and a master’s degree in music education. ‘But I always loved conducting,’ he said…. Today, Topilow, who has 46 years of professional conducting experience, has an impressive resume of musical accomplishments. In addition to serving as the music director and conductor for FSO, he is also Founding Conductor of the Cleveland Pops Orchestra and Conductor Laureate of the National Repertory Orchestra, a summer festival in Breckenridge, Colorado. He … has served as principal pops conductor of the Toledo Symphony Orchestra, the Southwest Florida Symphony Orchestra and the Mansfield Symphony Orchestra…. FSO audiences don’t simply watch Topilow conduct. He draws them into the performances, creating synergy between those on stage and those watching.”