Lake Forest Civic Orchestra Announces Dr. Nicholas Wallin as New Music Director
The Lake Forest Civic Orchestra (LFCO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Nicholas Wallin as its next music director.
Dr. Wallin was selected following a nationwide search that attracted more than 30 applicants. After interviews with a select group of candidates, four finalists were invited to guest conduct the orchestra during its 2025–2026 season. Audience members and orchestra musicians were invited to provide feedback following each candidate's appearance, and that input played an important role in the board's decision-making process.
Dr. Wallin conducted the orchestra's season finale concert in May as part of its Postcards from America series. Feedback from both audience members and orchestra musicians was overwhelmingly positive. His engaging concert commentary, which connected the music to both its historical context and contemporary relevance, resonated strongly with listeners. His remarks reflected not only a deep knowledge of the repertoire but also a passion for creating meaningful connections among the music, performers, and audience.
"The LFCO Board voted unanimously to appoint Nick as our next Music Director," said LFCO Board President Howard Martino. "Throughout the search process, he demonstrated a clear artistic vision, a commitment to musical excellence, and a genuine appreciation for the role community orchestras play in enriching people's lives. We are confident that he will continue to develop the orchestra musically while inspiring our growing, loyal, and curious audience through thoughtful programming and engaging performances."
Dr. Wallin serves on the faculty of Lake Forest College, where he teaches conducting, music theory, and music history and directs the college's orchestra. His appointment creates new opportunities for collaboration between the LFCO and Lake Forest College, helping advance one of the orchestra's strategic goals: supporting and developing young musicians for a lifetime of musical growth and performance.
When asked about leading the LFCO, Dr. Wallin said, "I recently concluded a 17-year tenure as Music Director of the Mid-Columbia Symphony in Washington state, but I'm not ready to put my baton down. My life is about relationships, and the opportunity to build musical relationships with the members and patrons of the LFCO excites me."
He continued, "I'm curious and allow my questions to lead both me and the orchestra on explorations of those questions. In the big scheme of things, where do orchestras fit in modern culture? How do we continue to create meaningful experiences that bring people together around great music?"
Dr. Wallin added, "The LFCO has cultivated an audience that is attentive, engaged, and generous, while also building strong support from donors, businesses, and sponsors. That is no small achievement, and it is the kind of organization any conductor would be thrilled to lead."
As Music Director, Dr. Wallin will oversee the orchestra's artistic vision, programming, and musical leadership. Details of the LFCO's 38th season—its first under the baton of Dr. Wallin—will be announced in the coming weeks.
About the Lake Forest Civic Orchestra
Founded in 1989, the Lake Forest Civic Orchestra is a community orchestra serving Chicago's North Shore. The orchestra brings together dedicated volunteer musicians and professional artistic leadership to present high-quality orchestral performances, educational opportunities, and community engagement programs. The LFCO is committed to enriching lives through music while fostering a lifelong appreciation for orchestral performance.
Tickets for individual concerts in the 2026-2027 season can be purchased here beginning in August.
