Santa Monica Symphony Names New Music Director

The Polish cellist and conductor Pola Benke will step into the role

The Santa Monica Symphony has announced that Polish conductor Pola Benke will serve as its new Music Director. She is presently Assistant Conductor at both the Long Beach Symphony and the Riverside Philharmonic.

Originally a cellist, Benke received her master's degree from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee and has studied with cellists including Marek Szpakiewicz and Lynn Harrell.

As a conductor, she has taken part in a number of festivals, including the Järvi Academy in Estonia, the Dartington Music Festival in the UK, and the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music in California — where she has had the opportunity to study with teachers including Neeme Järvi, Paavo Järvi, and Sian Edwards.

Benke is currently director of the International Cello Festival Hello-Cello, and is also a member of several chamber ensembles — including the OC Trio, Romantica Piano Quartet, and the Floocello Duo (alongside fellow cellist Antonina Styczen).

"I am truly honored and excited to step into the role of Music Director for the Santa Monica Symphony," Benke said. "This orchestra holds a special place in my heart, and I am inspired by its rich history and its profound connection to the community. As we approach the Symphony’s 81st season, I look forward to building upon its remarkable legacy and guiding it into an exciting new chapter."

"We are thrilled to welcome Pola Benke as the next Music Director of the Santa Monica Symphony," said the orchestra's Board of Directors. "Her artistry, vision, and deep commitment to community engagement reflect the very heart of our mission. We look forward to an inspiring new chapter under her leadership."