Utah Symphony Names Inaugural Creative Partner

Conductor David Robertson will step into the role for a three-year tenure, beginning in 2023

American conductor and composer David Robertson's appointment to the Utah Symphony coincides with the international search for their next Music Director, which is currently underway. Robertson will have significant input in that appointment.

The newly-created role will require Robertson to conceive of programs and projects that sit outside of the traditional concert-hall experience (though he will also lead some more conventional mainstage performances).

So far, he has developed three such events: a collaboration with the organization's operatic colleagues that will shed new light on a familiar masterpiece, a festival that will encompass the wider community, and a program based on works from America, Germany, and Finland. Further details will be forthcoming in March.

"I have the deepest respect for the musicians of the Utah Symphony and their artistry, and am honored and delighted to serve as Creative Partner," Robertson said. "I am greatly looking forward to collaborating with the musicians, the incoming Music Director, and USUO leadership to explore new ideas, deliver inspired music making, and connect with the people of Utah."

"I am eager to build meaningful relationships in this state — which is so close to my heart — and to engage even more Utahns in the symphonic art form through the programs and dialogue we will create together."

"All of us at Utah Symphony | Utah Opera [USUO] are thrilled to welcome David Robertson, a conductor with whom our musicians felt an instant and ongoing musical connection," said Steve Brosvik, the USUO President & CEO.

"Attracting a Creative Partner of his international stature speaks to the excellence of our musicians and our highly engaged audiences — and David’s creativity, musical ideas, and dynamic ability to pull everyone into those ideas make him the ideal person to develop this role with us and build upon the orchestra’s artistic strengths."