Hughes hails from Colorado, where he directs both the Boulder Symphony Orchestra and Symphony of the Rockies. In both roles, he said, he carries the hope of making classical music accessible for audiences.
That mission has led to partnerships with local organizations for sensory-friendly concerts.
His orchestras also play music that those with dementia connect with, typically music from the past.
Such concerts, he said, have a healing effect on those individuals.
Hughes will be directing the ASO's last concert of the 2024-25 season, "Rach the House," Saturday evening at the Paramount Theatre.