Daniel will be joining the Santa Barbara Symphony as music director of the Santa Barbara Youth Symphony.

Santa Barbara Symphony’s music education programs are the only programs in the region tied to a professional symphony orchestra. Fostering collaboration, confidence and community, the three youth ensembles serve students in grades three through 12 from beginner to advanced: Camerata Ensemble, Philharmonia Orchestra, and the Santa Barbara Youth Symphony.

The Santa Barbara Youth Symphony has a  57-year history in the community and has produced notable alumni both in and out of music. Gee’s appointment is part of the symphony's effort to empower students to be their best through music.

The programs offer quality musical mentorship and focused instruction, performance opportunities, and access to new experiences with the symphony’s professional musicians and guest artists.

“I am so pleased to welcome Daniel as the new music director for the Santa Barbara Youth Symphony,” said Nicholas Fuentes, vice president/Community Education & Enrichment for the Santa Barbara Symphony. “With his background and experience, we’ll be taking the youth ensembles to new levels by providing educational opportunities that build bridges between musicians of every age," Fuentes said. "The addition of Daniel to our team adds vital support to our vision of providing a continuum of music education to young musicians of all skill levels in the local community.”

“I am thrilled with the appointment of Daniel; he’s a great combination of musician and educator, and he has also assisted me in a few symphony programs in the past,” said Nir Kabaretti., symphony music & artistic director. “Daniel’s musical journey began in his public school's music program, a testament to the power and potential of music education in schools.

"Our students are in great hands, and this is exciting for our continuing partnership with Westmont College.”