
Serena Reuten Assistant Conductor. Image provided by The Omaha Symphony.
Serena Reuten: From Childhood Inspiration to Symphony Assistant Conductor
January 14th, 2025
Serena Reuten, the Assistant Conductor of the Omaha Symphony, found her love for music in an unlikely setting—a home with no musical background. Her journey began as a young girl when she discovered Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker ballet suite on a cassette tape. Enthralled by the melodies, she danced along and that moment left a lasting impression and sparked a lifelong fascination with classical music.
Reuten’s passion led her to seek out others who shared her love for the genre. She surrounded herself with people who appreciated classical music not only for its sound but also for its history, composers, and artistry. These connections deepened her understanding and solidified her desire to pursue a life in music.
Her interest soon turned toward the role of the conductor—the artist responsible for shaping the performance and bringing a composer’s vision to life. This new fascination marked a turning point in her musical journey.
While studying as an undergraduate, Reuten had a defining moment when she participated in a unique opportunity. Students with basic conducting training were randomly selected to lead a professional ensemble in performing Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5. When it was her turn, she took the podium, an experience that confirmed her dream of becoming a conductor.
Now in her second year as Assistant Conductor of the Omaha Symphony, she brings her passion for classical music to the stage, connecting with audiences and inspiring a love for the art form in the Omaha community.