EarRelevant Staff | 18 JUL 2025
NASHVILLE, Tennessee— Leonard Slatkin, 80, the internationally renowned conductor known for his wide-ranging influence in American classical music, is returning to the Nashville Symphony as Music Advisor, the organization announced Wednesday.
Slatkin, a longtime friend of the orchestra, will assume the advisory role for a three-year term, commencing with the 2025–26 season. His return comes at a pivotal moment for the Symphony, which is entering a new chapter following the departure of Music Director Giancarlo Guerrero after a transformative 16-year tenure.
It’s not the first time Slatkin has stepped in to guide the Nashville Symphony through a period of transition. He previously served as Music Advisor from 2006 to 2009, helping to shepherd the orchestra during the grand opening of Schermerhorn Symphony Center—now a cornerstone of Nashville’s cultural landscape.
“Leonard Slatkin’s return is both timely and inspiring,” said Alan D. Valentine, the Symphony’s President and CEO. “His past leadership helped shape a formative chapter in our history, and we are thrilled to welcome him back during this pivotal time of transition.”
In his advisory capacity, Slatkin will provide artistic guidance, collaborate on programming, oversee auditions, and help shape the organization’s long-term strategy. He is also slated to conduct select concerts, including the Symphony’s 20th Anniversary Gala in 2026, which will commemorate the opening of the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in September 2006.
“Twenty years ago, it was my privilege to help lead the Nashville Symphony through a challenging transitional time,” Slatkin said in a statement. “I am once again honored to do so, working closely with the orchestra, board, and community to build on a continuing program of artistic excellence, orchestral refinement, and community engagement.”
Slatkin’s return offers both continuity and vision as the Symphony searches for its next music director. The leadership transition follows Guerrero’s influential tenure, during which the orchestra earned national acclaim and expanded its artistic reach.
“Leonard Slatkin brings both artistic excellence and institutional knowledge,” said Peter Otto, the Symphony’s concertmaster. “He understands this orchestra’s vision and will be an inspiring presence as we prepare for the future.”
“This appointment reinforces the Symphony’s commitment to thoughtful artistic leadership,” added Mary Cavarra, Chair of the Symphony’s Board of Directors. “We are grateful to Leonard for once again stepping into this important role at such a meaningful moment.”
Throughout his career, Slatkin has held top posts at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Orchestre National de Lyon, National Symphony Orchestra, and St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, among others. A GRAMMY® Award-winning conductor and composer, he is widely respected for his interpretations of American music and his commitment to music education.
Slatkin’s appointment begins in September 2025 and will run through the end of the 2027–28 season. ■
EXTERNAL LINKS:
- Leonard Slatkin: nashvillesymphony.org
- Nashville Symphony: nashvillesymphony.org
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