Evans Haile is an internationally recognized conductor, producer, and performer. He is the General Director of Opera North in New Hampshire and the longtime conductor of the Gainesville Orchestra. His career includes leading performances with major orchestras such as the Boston Pops, Baltimore Symphony, Florida Orchestra, National Opera in Washington, D.C., and Sarasota Opera.

Haile has conducted internationally, including the Australian premiere of Villa-Lobos' Magdalena and performances of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. He has collaborated on productions for CBS, Warner Bros., and Lincoln Center, and his work has been recognized with multiple industry awards.

A dedicated advocate for the arts, Haile has directed and produced performances at prestigious venues across the country, bringing world-class music to diverse audiences.

History of The Gainesville Orchestra

Founded in 1983 as the Gainesville Chamber Orchestra, a dedicated group of musicians came together to bring symphonic music to the region. Under the leadership of its first conductor, Raymond Chobaz, the orchestra quickly grew in both size and reputation, performing its inaugural concert to a large audience. By 1984, the organization had established an advisory board and Board of Directors, solidifying its role in the cultural vitality of Alachua County.

In 1989, the orchestra expanded its commitment to education by launching the Youth Concert Series, bringing live symphonic performances to schoolchildren throughout the region.

The appointment of Maestro Evans Haile as Music Director and Conductor in 2001 ushered in a new era of artistic excellence, attracting internationally acclaimed guest performers and elevating the orchestra’s profile. The orchestra has collaborated with numerous cultural institutions, including the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Harn Museum, Dance Alive!, and the Hippodrome State Theater, broadening its impact beyond the concert hall.

Recognizing its artistic growth, the orchestra officially rebranded as The Gainesville Orchestra in 2013, reflecting its expanded repertoire and continued dedication to enriching North Florida’s cultural landscape. Today, The Gainesville Orchestra continues to bring world-class symphonic music to the community, blending classical tradition with innovative programming.