Conductor Mei-Ann Chen Named Artistic Advisor For The SSO In Newly-Created Position

The Springfield Symphony Orchestra (SSO) has announced that internationally-acclaimed conductor Mei-Ann Chen–who was guest conductor for the SSO's 2023-24 opening night performance–is joining the SSO in the newly-created position of Artistic Advisor, effective for the 2024-25 season.

In her new position with the SSO, Maestra Chen will serve as the orchestra's artistic face, curating programs, selecting guest soloists and facilitating other artistic needs. Chen will also conduct a minimum of two symphonic concerts per season. At the same time, the SSO will continue to engage guest conductors in performances of the Symphony.

Maestra Chen made her debut with the SSO this past fall for the orchestra's opening night concert, A Festive 80th Anniversary Year. Since that performance, Chen's skills were recognized by the SSO as a critical artistic voice as the SSO moves forward in building its audience and diversifying its symphonic offerings.

According to Paul Lambert, President and CEO of the SSO, “We are thrilled, as we surpass 80 years of sharing beautiful music in the City of Springfield and with the region, to begin an exciting new era of innovation, creativity and memorable music collaborations with the guidance of Maestra Mei-Ann Chen,” Lambert said. “Her energy, artistic vision, incredible ideas, and musical drive aligns perfectly with our plans for growth and engagement as we evolve our music making and work to inspire current and future audiences.”

“Our growing community of music lovers has shared their enjoyment of new faces on the podium for performances, which will continue with Chen's guidance.”

Stated Chen, “It is an honor to join an icon in Massachusetts' cultural scene. The extraordinary musicianship, the commitment and energy of this organization excites me. I look forward to working with this incredibly talented ensemble of musicians and exceptionally devoted staff introducing new ways to experience and appreciate music, sharing ideas and introducing innovative programs that continue to build upon the dynamic legacy of creativity and inclusion that Springfield Symphony Orchestra has achieved over the past eight decades.”

Paul Friedmann, SSO Board Chair, said, “On behalf of the SSO Board, I welcome Mei-Ann Chen and the energy and artistic sensibility she brings to the SSO. She will be an important creative asset by helping us to present concerts that will inspire both our loyal longtime subscribers and those new to live symphonic music.”

An acclaimed, innovative leader both on and off the podium, Taiwanese American conductor Mei-Ann Chen has served as Music Director of Chicago Sinfonietta since 2011. Chief Conductor of Austria's Recreation - Grosses Orchester Graz at Styriarte, she also serves as an Artistic Partner with ROCO (TX) and Northwest Sinfonietta (WA). Highly regarded as a compelling communicator, Chen is a sought-after guest conductor, and has appeared with distinguished orchestras throughout the Americas, Europe, Taiwan, The United Kingdom, and Scandinavia, (over 150 orchestras to date).

Named one of Musical America's 2015 Top 30 Influencers, Chen is a recipient of a League of American Orchestras Helen M. Thompson Award, a Taki Concordia Fellowship, several ASCAP awards, and is the only woman in the history of the Malko Competition to have been named First Prize Winner.

The SSO's current 2023-24 season marks 80 years for the Orchestra. Details of its 2024-25 season will be announced soon. For more information and to purchase tickets for upcoming concerts, visit www.springfieldsymphony.org.

Renowned for its storytelling, dynamic performances and commitment to community, the SSO has enriched the cultural landscape of Western Massachusetts for 80 years. The second-largest symphonic orchestra in Massachusetts, the SSO offers performance series that include symphonic, choral, contemporary, and pop concerts; compelling audience engagement activities; accessible and creative community outreach programs; and popular youth education programs, including youth orchestras 50 years strong.

Committed to creative collaboration and building connections between the rich heritages of its community members, the SSO continues to diversify its musical offerings and engage new audiences.

Photo Credit: Simon Pauly

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