Colorado Symphony Announces New Principal Conductor

In the new position, Peter Oundjian will conduct six performances each season, while also helping in the artistic planning with the Colorado Symphony Association.

Oundjian's career began as a solo violinist and served fourteen years as the first violinist of the renowned Tokyo String Quartet.

Pivoting to conducting, Oundjian started a 14-year tenure as the Music Director of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, with which he now holds the title of Conductor Emeritus.

He subsequently led Royal Scottish National Orchestra for six years, and in 2019, was named Music Director of the Colorado Music Festival — a role in which he continues to serve.

Oundjian has been a visiting professor at Yale University’s School of Music since 1981 and conducted the Yale and Juilliard Symphony Orchestras.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Colorado Symphony as Principal Conductor,” said Oundjian, “as I have always enjoyed working with this extraordinary orchestra. The level of musicianship and dedication among the players, and the organization’s willingness to experiment, collaborate and push the boundaries of what an American orchestra can be, makes this a very exciting partnership.

“The appointment of Peter Oundjian as our Principal Conductor is a transformational moment for our orchestra and our organization,” said Anthony Pierce, Chief Artistic Officer. “The Colorado Symphony is reimagining the possibilities for live symphonic music, and Peter will play an integral part in that process moving forward. Peter is a conductor and leader of the highest caliber, and we are thrilled to welcome him to Denver.”