About us

James A Holleman begins his tenure as conductor of the Benzie Area Symphony Orchestra with a distinguished record of artistic leadership, inspired programming, and a deep commitment to making orchestral music accessible for musicians and engaging for audiences. Known for his thoughtful musicianship and collaborative spirit—that extends to engaging with soloists, combing instrumental and vocal ensembles, and working with composers to create and premiere new works—Maestro Holleman brings to the podium a focus on musical excellence, community connection, and performances that invite listeners more deeply into the concert experience.

Over the course of his career, he has conducted various orchestral and choral ensembles earning recognition for both artistic achievement and imaginative repertoire. His work has included leading award-winning performances, championing major masterworks, and helping ensembles grow in ambition, quality, and reach—regardless of their starting point. Among his notable accomplishments, the Hillsdale College Symphony Orchestra performed at the 2017 College Orchestra Directors Association (CODA) National Conference in Washington, D.C. The orchestra received Second Prize in the 2018 American Prize College Orchestra Division. The same year, Holleman was named as a finalist in the University/College Orchestral Conducting Category and received a special judges’ citation for “Artistic Success in Exceptional Repertoire.” As one example of championing masterworks he has conducted upwards of 30 performances of Handel’s Messiah, including a 2024 guest appearance with the Traverse City Philharmonic and choirs from Northwestern Michigan College. 

Holleman recently retired from Hillsdale College where he served for 29 years as Director of Orchestras and Choirs building a vibrant culture of ensemble performance. During his tenure, he created significant artistic initiatives, developed enduring musical traditions, and ignited the growth of both the orchestral and choral programs. As Music Department Chair (1997-2022), he led the department to unprecedented heights growing campus-wide student participation to 30 percent. In addition, he was a key figure in Hillsdale College’s vision for the creation and design of both the Howard Music Building (dedicated April 2003) and Christ Chapel (dedicated October 2019). He also served nationally in executive board leadership roles with CODA, including President (2023).

Earlier in his career, he served as Assistant Conductor of the Jackson Symphony Orchestra, Music Director of the Jackson Youth Symphony Orchestra, and Music Director of the Jackson Chorale. More recently he served as Music Director of the Hillsdale Arts Chorale (2022-2026).

Holleman is a graduate of  Michigan State University where he earned degrees in French horn performance (1986) and orchestral conducting (1989). While at MSU he was a conducting student of Professors Leon Gregorian and Dae Uk Lee. After graduate school, he studied at the Conductors Institute in Columbia, SC; the Oregon Bach Festival in Eugene, OR; and at numerous workshops with The Conductors Guild and The American Symphony Orchestra League. As a French horn player, he performed with orchestras across Michigan and Tennessee and was a student of the late Dr. Douglas Campbell. 

Holleman was raised in Oak Ridge, TN where his father was a biochemist at the National Laboratories. He enjoyed robust school music programs and community ensembles, which helped foster his dedication to creating opportunities for musicians of varied skill levels and experiences. He now resides fulltime on the Leelanau Peninsula where he enjoys cooking, boating, and fishing.