Join us on Thursday, September 10, 2026, for a LUNCH (12:00-1:30pm) meeting at The View (1071 Celestial St, 45202), for a program with John Morris Russell, Conductor, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra.
John Morris Russell is one of America’s most celebrated pops conductors and has served as Conductor of the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra since 2011. He succeeded the legendary Erich Kunzel and continues the orchestra’s tradition of innovative programming, community engagement, and musical excellence. Russell recently extended his contract with the Pops through the 2027–28 season.
A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Russell began his conducting career after studying music and theater, later serving as Associate Conductor of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra from 1995 to 2006. During that time, he founded the Orchestra’s acclaimed Classical Roots series, celebrating the contributions of African American composers and artists, and co-created the beloved Home for the Holidays concerts.
In addition to leading the Cincinnati Pops, Russell has served as Principal Pops Conductor of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and Music Director of the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra. As a guest conductor, he has appeared with many of North America’s leading orchestras, including the Boston Pops Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, The Cleveland Orchestra, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
Russell has led numerous acclaimed recordings with the Cincinnati Pops, including American Originals (a Grammy-nominated recording), Voyage: A Musical Journey of Exploration and Imagination, and JOY! Live from Music Hall. His American Soundscapes video series, produced with the Cincinnati Pops and CET Public Television, has reached more than one million viewers online.
Known for his engaging personality, dynamic performances, and passion for connecting audiences with music, John Morris Russell continues to inspire listeners through concerts that blend classical excellence with popular music, film scores, Broadway favorites, patriotic celebrations, and family programming.
RSVPs are required to attend, whether you are eating lunch or not, so if you would like to attend, please click HERE by 5:00 p.m., Friday, September 11, 2026, or contact [email protected]. If you are not a current member of the Rotary Club of Cincinnati, please note lunches are $30, and payment will be collected at the door via cash, check, or credit card. Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions.
Meal Choices –
Regular Entrée: TBA
Salad Entrée: TBA
Vegetarian Entrée: TBA
