Donny Gilbert
Music Director & Conductor
Born in 1974, Donny Gilbert has lived a life surrounded by music. His journey began in elementary school, when he first picked up the trombone—a passion that has stayed with him ever since. What began as a childhood pursuit quickly grew into a lifelong calling, shaping him into a composer, conductor, and educator whose work has touched audiences across Utah and beyond.
After attending Snow College, Donny continued his studies at the University of Utah, where he earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music Composition. During his time there, he was entrusted with opportunities to write and arrange music for a wide range of ensembles, including the University Wind Symphony, Concert Band, Philharmonic Orchestra, Jazz Ensembles 1 and 2, and the University of Utah Marching Band. These experiences not only sharpened his skills as a composer and arranger, but also established him as a versatile musician with the ability to adapt to many different styles.
Donny’s reputation as a composer and arranger has led to collaborations with some of Utah’s most prominent organizations and artists. His work has been performed by the Utah Symphony and Chorus, and he has created music for Thurl Bailey, Kurt Bestor, Michael McLean, the Bar-J Wranglers, George Dyer, David Osmond, the Days of ’47 Pops concerts. His music reflects both technical mastery and a heartfelt connection to the performers who bring his notes to life.
In April 2023, Donny achieved a significant artistic milestone by composing and conducting a full-length original score for the 1925 silent film The Phantom of the Opera, starring Lon Chaney. This ambitious project culminated in a live performance at the Utah Cultural Celebration Center, where the West Valley Symphony of Utah accompanied the film to an enthusiastic audience. The event was met with overwhelming praise, solidifying Donny’s reputation as a composer capable of bridging the silent film era with contemporary orchestral performance.
In October 2008, Donny was appointed the third Music Director and Conductor of the West Valley Symphony of Utah, following the orchestra’s founder, Steve Baker. Under his baton, the symphony has continued to grow in artistry and community engagement, building on its legacy while exploring fresh musical horizons. His leadership is marked by both precision and passion, fostering an environment where musicians and audiences alike feel connected to the music.
In addition to his work with the West Valley Symphony, Donny serves as Associate Music Director of the Choral Arts Society of Utah Master Chorale, where he continues to share his love of choral-orchestral repertoire.
For Donny, music is not just performance—it is a means of bringing people together. Whether writing, arranging, or conducting, he is dedicated to creating musical experiences that inspire, uplift, and unite.
