Reineke, who conducted The New York Pops' 25th birthday gala at Carnegie Hall earlier this year, will begin his position with the New York Pops Oct. 1, 2009. Reineke succeeds the late Skitch Henderson, who formed the New York Pops in 1983.

Prior to his official arrival, Reineke will conduct the Pops' 26th Birthday Gala at Carnegie Hall on April 27, 2009, as well as the nationwide telecast of the 2009 "Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular" on NBC.

In addition to his work with the New York Pops, Reineke will also begin his tenure as principal Pops conductor of the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra and embark on his second season as principal Pops conductor of the Modesto Symphony Orchestra.

"I am thrilled beyond words to be the new music director of the esteemed New York Pops," said Reineke in a statement. "It is my goal to build upon the wonderful tradition that Skitch Henderson created and lead the orchestra to new heights. The Great American Songbook is alive and well and growing every day, and I look forward to exploring new music, artists, and programming ideas to entertain the people of New York City and beyond."

For further information on the New York Pops season, visit newyorkpops.org.