A native of Amsterdam, percussionist Frank Epstein came to the United States in 1952, settling in Hollywood, and joining the BSO in 1968. Epstein has made recordings with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the BSO, and the Boston Pops, as well as with Collage New Music. As founder of Collage, and music director from its inception in 1972 through 1991, Epstein has overseen the commissioning and performance of more than 200 new works written especially for the ensemble as well as the production of 17 recordings. Epstein was awarded a presidential commendation from NEC for his work with Collage.

Epstein is a consultant to the Avedis Zildjian Company on new product development (including the introduction of the Classic Orchestral Cymbal Selection), and as a clinician conducts workshops and seminars throughout the country, and is also a member of the Tanglewood Music Center faculty. Before joining the BSO he was a member of the San Antonio Symphony. Epstein has recently written a book entitled Cymbalisms, a complete guide for the Orchestral Cymbals player.