The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (BSO) announced the appointment of James Conlon, one of today’s most versatile and respected conductors, as Artistic Advisor. Mr. Conlon will begin his role in September 2021.
As Artistic Advisor, he will help ensure the continued artistic quality of the Orchestra. In addition to leading three concert weeks per year in each of the 2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24 seasons, Mr. Conlon will fill many duties off the podium including those related to artistic personnel – such as filling important vacancies and attracting exceptional musicians as outlined in the BSO’s recent five-year collective bargaining agreement.
Mr. Conlon’s considerable experience and success directing world-class musical institutions, including the LA Opera since 2006, inform this special advisership. The appointment comes following the recommendation of the BSO’s Artistic Advisory Committee, which consists of musicians elected by their peers, together with management.
Mr. Conlon’s appearances in 2021-22 season will also mark his BSO debut. “I am very happy to have been asked to serve as Artistic Advisor of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and have accepted with the greatest pleasure,” said Conlon. “I look forward to beginning our work next fall. The BSO’s reputation as one of America’s great symphony orchestras, as well as a leader in imaginative and relevant programming, is well known. That is in large measure thanks to Marin Alsop, whom I have known for many decades, and I am particularly enthusiastic to work together with her in order to assure the succession process for the orchestra’s future. I look forward to collaborating with the musicians, management, artistic leadership team, and the entire BSO community at this pivotal time in our history.”