EarRelevant Staff | 7 JUN 2024
Providence, RI— The Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School has announced the appointment of Ruth Reinhardt as its next Music Director. The decision, recommended by the organization’s Music Director Search Committee, was officially made at the orchestra’s season-ending Gala on June 1 at The VETS (Veterans Memorial Auditorium).
Reinhardt, a rising star in the conducting world, will immediately assume her role as Music Director Designate and take over as Music Director starting with the 2025-2026 season, marking her first appointment as a Music Director. Until then, Robert Spano will continue as the orchestra’s Principal Conductor before transitioning to Principal Guest Conductor.
The 35-year-old German conductor is known for her clarity, imaginative programming, and collaborative approach. She has guest-conducted prestigious orchestras in Europe and the United States, including the New York Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, and Royal Stockholm Philharmonic. Recently, she conducted her first staged opera, Verdi’s La traviata, with the Royal Swedish Opera.
Reinhardt has a history of working with both established and emerging soloists and is noted for her innovative programming. She often introduces audiences to new works and emphasizes women composers. In previous engagements with the Rhode Island Philharmonic, she premiered works by Polish composer Grażyna Bacewicz and Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho.
“We are thrilled to announce Ruth Reinhardt as our next Music Director,” said Susan Chung, Chair of the RI Phil Board. “Her ability to bring out the best in our musicians and her rapport with both the Orchestra and our Music School students were remarkable. We are confident she will be a transformational leader.”
During the 2024-25 season, Reinhardt will conduct several key concerts in her upcoming role, including the TACO and The White Family Foundation Classical Series concert on November 9, featuring works by Mendelssohn, Hindemith, and Dvořák. Then, in the 2025-26 season, she will lead most of the orchestra’s performances and engage extensively with the community, including local schools and universities.
“Ruth Reinhardt is an exceptional conductor and communicator,” said RI Phil Executive Director David Beauchesne. “Her energy and enthusiasm are infectious, and she has a talent for engaging the audience with new works. We believe she will be a successful and inspiring leader for our community.”
Reinhardt expressed her excitement about the new position: “I am honored to join the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School. The musicians’ energy and precision are inspiring, and I look forward to working with them and the community.”
The selection process, which took nearly two years, was thorough and confidential to ensure the best fit for the organization. The search committee included members of the Orchestra, Music School faculty, staff, and Board Members.
Robert Spano, the current Principal Conductor, welcomed Reinhardt’s appointment. “I am pleased to welcome Ruth Reinhardt and look forward to working with her to continue elevating the Orchestra.”
Founded in 1944, The Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School combines music education and performance, serving thousands of students and engaging the community through its diverse programs. ■
EXTERNAL LINKS:
- Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School: riphil.org
- Ruth Reinhardt: hruth-reinhardt.com
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