Gary Lee Parks was selected as Principal Conductor of the Northwest LDS Symphony beginning with the 1998-99 season. He began his formal musical training at the age of 9. When he majored in Music at San Diego State he planned to become a composer and teacher. Since joining the LDS Church in 1982 he has been the Director of Ward, Stake, Regional Conference and Temple Dedication choirs. He served as Assistant Conductor for two years. He and his wife Joan, whom he met at SDSU 34 years ago, have 3 children. Gary retired in 2002 as a pilot for Delta Airlines.