Princeton Symphony Orchestra Announces New Assistant Conductor

American conductor Kenneth Bean will take on the role, effective immediately, as the Georg and Joyce Albers-Schonberg Assistant Conductor

Currently, Bean serves as Music Director/Conductor of the Young People’s Philharmonic of the Lehigh Valley, Conductor of the Philadelphia Young Musicians Orchestra, and Assistant Conductor of Symphony in C.

In his newest role with the Princeton Symphony Orchestra (PSO), he will serve as cover conductor for Edward T. Cone Music Director Rossen Milanov and begin rehearsals as conductor of the Youth Orchestra of Central Jersey (YOCJ), PSO’s youth orchestra partner.

“From our first meeting with Kenneth Bean, our staff and students felt an instant connection," said Youth Orchestra of Central Jersey Artistic Director Phillip Pugh. "He brings a wealth of knowledge and youth orchestra experience; but most of all, he brings a warmth and love for students. We are so excited to have Kenny as our Symphonic Orchestra conductor and to continue our partnership with the Princeton Symphony Orchestra.”

Based in the Philadelphia area as an avid instructor and conductor, Bean previously served as the Associate Conductor of Philadelphia Youth Orchestra, substitute conductor for Mississippi Youth Symphony Orchestra, and Assistant Conductor for the Northern Ohio Youth Orchestra and the Junior String Philharmonic of the Lehigh Valley.

A graduate of Oberlin Conservatory of Music and Jackson State University, he is also an active freelance trumpeter, performing with the Philadelphia Chamber Brass, Philos Brass Ensemble, Sphinx Symphony Orchestra, and Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra.

PSO's Music Director Rossen Milanov says, “I am thrilled to have Kenneth Bean as my artistic partner, and am very excited to welcome him to our team. I believe that his talent, passion for education, and love for music will make a big difference for the Princeton Symphony Orchestra.”

Bean will lead the Princeton Symphony Orchestra the weekend of February 5-6, 2022, with Armenian violinist Diana Adamyan making her U.S. debut.