Jason Lai

Jason Lai is a renowned conductor and leadership expert known for inspiring talent through music. Currently the Principal Conductor at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory, Jason has previously served as Associate Conductor for the Singapore Symphony Orchestra and the Hong Kong Sinfonietta. With over 25 years of experience, he has led orchestras such as the BBC Philharmonic and the New Japan Philharmonic and conducted masterclasses in Europe and Asia. 

In addition to his conducting, Jason is a charismatic communicator who engages wider audiences through television. His roles include mentoring on Maestro and judging on BBC Young Musician of the Year, showcasing his ability to make classical music accessible. He has also hosted documentaries on arts and culture, reinforcing his status as a global cultural ambassador. 

His leadership, drawn from his conducting experience, emphasizes collaboration and fostering unity within teams. Jason highlights the parallels between orchestral and organizational leadership, underscoring the importance of clear direction and storytelling. 

Educated at Oxford and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Jason gained early accolades in composition and cello performance. He discovered his passion for conducting after winning the BBC Young Conductors Workshop in 2002, leading to a prominent career marked by performances at the BBC Proms and with major orchestras.