Emily Isaacson

Dr. Emily Isaacson is a conductor, composer, and producer who is fiercely committed to reimagining classical music for the world today. She is founder and artistic director of Classical Uprising, a performing arts collective serving over 5,000 musicians and music lovers that believes classical music must rise up, challenge current norms, and re-envision where, how, and for whom we make music. For this work, Isaacson was named the 2018 Maine Artist of the Year, one of 50 Mainers Leading the State, and a 2024 Outstanding Woman, as well as a three-time winner of the American Prize. 

 In demand as a speaker and consultant, Isaacson appears on podcasts such as BBC Radio 3 Essay, The Pivot, and Arts. Work. Life., and has presented for the Association of Performing Arts Professionals, the Association of California Orchestras, Chorus America, and other major national convenings. She works with communities across the United States, bringing touring projects and serving as a guest conductor; recent collaborators include Minnesota Opera Orchestra, Roomful of Teeth, and the Handel and Haydn Society. 

 Isaacson has taught at Clark University and Bowdoin College. A St. Andrews Society Scholar, Isaacson holds advanced degrees from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland; the University of Oregon; and the University of Illinois. She serves on the board of the University of Southern Maine Visitors, the Osher Map Library Foundation, and Choral Arts New England. She lives in Portland with her husband and two kids and can be found kayaking, drinking hoppy IPAs, or planning her next dance party.  

eisaacson.com | [email protected]