Robert Hanson has demonstrated the rare ability to guide an organization through multiple phases of growth. During his 27-year tenure, he led the organization through the process of becoming Chicago’s first professional suburban orchestra in 1985, becoming Chicago’s premier regional orchestra in 1997, and is currently leading the organization through an unprecedented growth in programming. Under Hanson’s guidance, the Elgin Symphony Orchestra has become one of the finest and most celebrated orchestras in the Midwest. In addition to having been named "Orchestra of the Year" twice by the Illinois Council of Orchestras, it is one of thirty-nine arts organizations designated by the Illinois State legislature as an Established Regional Art Institution and a State Treasure. The Elgin Symphony is one of only four orchestras whose concerts are regularly broadcast on WFMT.

Hanson received his Master and Doctorate degrees in Music Composition at Northwestern University, where he won the coveted Faricy Award for excellence in music. He is a published composer; and his compositions have been performed internationally, including on a United States cultural exchange program in the former Soviet Union. He has received numerous commissions, including Hiawatha, a full-length oratorio commissioned by the Elgin Choral Union.

Hanson has served as Music Director of other ensembles including the Elgin Choral Union, the Lake County Chamber Orchestra, and Liberty-Fremont Chorus (IL), and the Traverse Symphony Orchestra (MI). He conducted the Ruth Page Nutcracker at the Arie Crown Theater for a number of seasons and recently conducted the Grant Park Symphony.

With a strong commitment to music education, Hanson has had a significant impact on the musical life of young people. His many accomplishments include initiating and developing the Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s Family concerts; founding the Elgin Area Youth Orchestra; the Elgin Community College (ECC) Conservatory; and the Elgin Community College Institute for the Performing Arts. He currently serves on the faculty of Elgin Community College.