The Search for Our Next Music Director: Coming to the Final Chapter

Over the course of this season, you have been part of our search for our next Music Director. Because we’ve shared this process openly from the beginning, many of you already understand how thoughtfully and intentionally this has been approached. You’ve seen it firsthand in our concerts, in the different artistic voices on the podium, and in the way each candidate has connected with our musicians and our audience.

Now, we are coming to the final chapter.

We have one remaining candidate concert, and with it, the last opportunity to experience a finalist in performance before the search committee begins its work to choose the candidate that most resonated with the orchestra, the board, the committee and the community. While so much of this process has taken place behind the scenes; through interviews, discussions, and evaluations, the heart of it has been right in front of you.

What has mattered most is what happens in the rehearsal room and on stage. How does a conductor communicate? How do they shape the sound of the orchestra? How do they respond in the moment? And also just as importantly, how do they connect with you, our audience, and with the broader Trenton community?

These are things that cannot be measured on paper. They can only be experienced.

One of the most meaningful parts of this journey for me has been watching our musicians navigate this process with such professionalism and openness. It is no small thing to welcome a new artistic leader every few weeks, to adjust, to listen differently, and to respond in real time. They have done this with care, flexibility, and a deep commitment to the orchestra.

I have also been struck by how engaged our audiences have been. Many of you have attended multiple concerts, shared your thoughts, and truly leaned into this process alongside us. That level of investment speaks to just what this orchestra means to the community.

On a personal note, I have genuinely enjoyed working with each of our candidates. They have each brought something distinct and meaningful to the podium, and I am confident that we are in a strong position as we move toward a decision.

In the coming weeks, the search committee will gather all of the input from this season and begin its final discussions before making a recommendation to the Board of Trustees.

The Capital Philharmonic has always been about more than the music we perform. It is about creating a sense of connection in the concert hall, in our schools, and throughout the city of Trenton. Our next Music Director will play a vital role in shaping our future.

Thank you for being part of this process. Your support and engagement have made this journey all the more meaningful.

I look forward to sharing what comes next.