Jonathan May (1952–2010)
Honorary Founder
Jonathan May was a conductor, cellist, educator, and advocate for music education whose influence shaped generations of young musicians throughout the United States. Over a career spanning more than twenty-five years, he founded and led numerous youth orchestras and string programs in Minnesota, Colorado, Tennessee, and Florida, inspiring thousands of students through his commitment to musical excellence, educational opportunity, and personal growth.
A passionate believer in the transformative power of music education, Mr. May dedicated his life to helping young musicians develop not only their artistic abilities, but also confidence, discipline, leadership, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts. His inclusive teaching philosophy welcomed students of all backgrounds and abilities while encouraging each individual to strive for their highest potential.
An active conductor and clinician, Mr. May was frequently invited to serve as an All-State conductor and guest conductor for regional string festivals throughout the country. In addition to leading youth orchestras on concert tours throughout England, Scotland, Australia, Austria, and Italy, he conducted the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra in Prague in January 2007.
Throughout his career, Mr. May received numerous honors recognizing his contributions to music education, including the Teachers Who Make A Difference Award in Denver, Colorado; the Faculty Merit Award from Moorhead State University; the Bryan Symphony Award in Tennessee; and the ASCAP Award for innovative programming of twentieth-century music.
Mr. May was a dedicated advocate for arts education and served on the National Board of the Youth Orchestra Division of the American Symphony Orchestra League. He also served on the boards of the American String Teachers Association in Minnesota, Tennessee, and Florida. In addition to maintaining a busy private teaching schedule, he developed and led string programs at Trinity Preparatory School, Park Maitland School, and throughout Flagler County, while serving as Music Director of the Central Florida Youth Orchestra in Lake County.
Jonathan May’s lifelong mission was to provide opportunities for a well-rounded music education and to ensure that every student had access to meaningful musical experiences. Metropolitan Area Youth Symphony and The Jonathan May Foundation were established to continue the educational ideals, values, and vision that defined his life’s work.
Today, his legacy lives on through the students, educators, families, and community members who continue to make music and make memories through MAYS.