DENVER — Colorado Symphony Principal Conductor Peter Oundjian will be elevated to music director.
Oundjian has agreed to a four-year contract beginning in the 2025/26 season, the Colorado Symphony Association (CSA) announced Monday.
Oundjian joined the Colorado Symphony as principal conductor prior to the 2022/23 season. He served as the orchestra’s principal guest conductor from 2003 to 2006 and has been a frequent collaborator.
"For many years, it has been my great pleasure to work with the extraordinary musicians of the Colorado Symphony, first as a frequent guest conductor and most recently as their principal conductor," Oundjian said.
"I am profoundly honored to step into the role of music director and to continue our musical journey together," he said. "This new chapter is a thrilling opportunity to deepen our connection with our community, innovate and reach new artistic heights as an orchestra. I look forward to building on our shared successes and bringing dynamic and inspiring performances to Colorado audiences in the years to come."
Oundjian previously had a 14-year tenure as the music director of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and was at the helm of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra for six years.
With a career spanning five decades, Oundjian began as a solo violinist, and first violinist of the Tokyo String Quartet, followed by an international conducting career leading orchestras in nearly every major musical center in the world.
"We are absolutely delighted to announce Peter Oundjian as music director of the Colorado Symphony," said Mark Cantrell, CSA president and CEO. "Peter's exceptional artistry, visionary leadership, and deep commitment to our musicians and community have been evident throughout his tenure as principal conductor. His promotion marks an exciting new era for our orchestra. We look forward to the innovative and inspiring performances that Peter will undoubtedly bring, and we are confident that his leadership will continue to elevate the Colorado Symphony to new artistic heights."
"Peter Oundjian's appointment as music director is a significant and natural progression for the Colorado Symphony," said Anthony Pierce, chief artistic officer. "Since 2022, his remarkable musicality, dedication, and vision as our principal conductor have profoundly impacted our orchestra. Elevating Peter to music director acknowledges his exceptional leadership and the deep connection he has fostered with our musicians and audiences across Colorado. We are excited to continue this journey with Peter at the helm, inspiring us all to reach even greater levels of excellence."
