Dallas Symphony Orchestra Creates New Principal Conductor Position for Jazz and Pop

Conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez will step into the newly-created position from the beginning of the 2023/24 season

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra (DSO) recently created a new Principal Conductor position for its Dallas Symphony Presents series, which covers popular song, jazz, Latin, and Broadway music. The position, which is named for Nancy A. Nasher & David J. Haemisegger, will first be held by conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez.

Lopez-Yañez will hold the position for a three-year appointment, conducting several Dallas Symphony Presents concerts each season. In 2023/34, he will collaborate with vocalist Lila Downs, work with circus company Troupe Vertigo, and lead the YP Gala.

Lopez-Yañez is presently Pops Conductor at the Nashville Symphony and Principal Pops Conductor of the Pacific Symphony. He has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Nas, Patti LaBelle, Itzhak Perlman, Stewart Copeland, Kenny Loggins, Toby Keith, Leslie Odom Jr., Megan Hilty, and Tituss Burgess.

"We are thrilled to welcome Enrico Lopez-Yañez as the Principal Conductor of Dallas Symphony Presents," said Kim Noltemy, the president & CEO of the Dallas Symphony. "His exceptional musicianship, passion for connecting with audiences and commitment to community engagement will make him a dynamic addition to the DSO’s artistic team."

"I am honored to join the Dallas Symphony Orchestra in this newly created role," said Lopez-Yañez. "I am excited to collaborate with the incredible musicians of the Dallas Symphony and to further connect with the vibrant arts community in Dallas."