Luke Frazier

Founder & Music Director

Luke Frazier believes that the future of orchestral music is breaking down barriers between orchestras and audiences. The most important priority for a modern conductor is not only musical excellence, but also creating diverse and engaging programming that brings communities together through the joy of music. Conductors are a bridge between audiences and orchestras and the responsibility that comes with that is something Luke takes to heart every day.

Luke started The American Pops Orchestra (APO) in 2015 to present a broad array of popular and classical music in innovative ways to bring new audiences into the orchestral world. APO has been featured in nearly thirty national broadcasts on PBS with programs ranging from American Roots to a complete re-imagining of the musical WICKED. Artists like Renée Fleming, Patti LaBelle, Joshua Bell, Ariana DeBose, Josh Groban and so many more have joined the orchestra sharing orchestral music with audiences across the country, completely free of charge.

Creating opportunities for the next generation of music makers and music lovers is always a priority for Luke. Each year Luke spends at least three weeks touring free musical programming to elementary schools in underserved areas and provides free monthly shows streamed online to kids in all 50 states. He is also dedicated to finding outstanding college vocalists and preserving classic American music through APO’s annual NextGen Vocal Competition. In addition to these special programs, Luke regularly donates his time as a clinician, speaker and panelist for educational organizations across the country.

In addition to Luke’s work with APO and PBS, he maintains a busy schedule as a guest conductor and pianist. Luke is proud to represent the United States of America as an official Arts Envoy for the United States Department of State.
Luke can be seen in upcoming performances at Lincoln Center, The Smithsonian, The White House Historical Association, The LA Music Center, The Metropolitan Museum of Art and U.S. embassies abroad. many more across the country conducting classical and popular music alike.

Luke is fortunate to call many of the world’s most incredible artists both friends and collaborators. Chita Rivera, Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Michael Feinstein, Leslie Jordan, Sandi Patty, Kristin Chenoweth, Jamie Barton, Paulo Szot, Vanessa Williams, Midori, Jacqueline Schwab, Arturo Sandoval, Rita Moreno and so many more have joined Luke onstage and on screen for original programs of all genres.