Cleveland Institute of Music Names Tito Munoz Director of Orchestra, Adds Anthony Parnther as Principal Guest Conductor
The Cleveland Institute of Music (CIM) announced that Tito Muñoz will take the helm as Director and Principal Conductor of the CIM Orchestra, and as Visiting Professor of Orchestral Studies, beginning with the fall 2026 season. The conservatory also named Anthony Parnther as Principal Guest Conductor for the same term, while Harry Davidson will remain Music Director of the CIM Opera Theater.
Muñoz, 43, has built a reputation as an American conductor with music‑director posts at the Phoenix Symphony, Opéra national de Lorraine, Orchestre symphonique et lyrique de Nancy, and Ensemble LPR. He stepped in as interim principal conductor at CIM last year and, after a successful year, was formally appointed to the permanent post. In his new role he will conduct three orchestral concerts each season, work closely with faculty, guest artists and students, and train graduate conductors. His responsibilities also include overseeing mock auditions, mentorship programs, special projects, and the overall orchestral season and curriculum.
Parnther, a bassoonist‑turned‑conductor, has served as music director of the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra since 2019 and of the Southeast Symphony in Los Angeles. Known for his work on film scores and across concert hall, opera, and studio settings, he will conduct one orchestral program each academic year. His collaborations will span the CIM Orchestra, CIM Opera Theater, and the New Music Ensemble, bringing a breadth of experience to the conservatory.
Founded in 1920, CIM enrolls roughly 325 students in its conservatory program and more than 1,500 in preparatory and continuing‑education courses. Faculty members often come from The Cleveland Orchestra, and the CIM Orchestra serves as the institution’s flagship ensemble, presenting a season that blends standard repertoire with contemporary works. The appointments are part of CIM’s strategy to deepen its orchestral program and offer students high‑level training, mentorship, and exposure to professional practice.
Muñoz said, "What drew me to CIM is the extraordinary level of talent, curiosity, and commitment I see in its students." CIM director Harrison added, "He has inspired students through his dynamic podium presence, thoughtful leadership, and unwavering commitment to their development." Parnther noted, "I look forward to sharing my experience across the concert hall, opera stage, and recording studio while encouraging students to approach every opportunity with curiosity, excellence, and a spirit of service through music."
Under Muñoz’s leadership, the orchestra will receive intensive mentorship for aspiring conductors and a robust curriculum that prepares students for orchestral careers. Parnther’s involvement will broaden repertoire exposure and performance contexts, while Davidson’s ongoing direction of opera productions will continue to link orchestral and operatic training. The new leadership team is expected to elevate the orchestra’s reputation and expand opportunities for students pursuing careers in orchestral and operatic fields.
The appointments take effect in the fall of 2026, when CIM will launch its new orchestral season under Muñoz’s direction, with Parnther as principal guest conductor and Davidson maintaining his role with the opera theater.
