Meet the SNH
Music Director Finalists

Click on an image below to learn more about each candidate.

Adam Kerry Boyles

Tiffany Chang

Filippo Ciabatti

Jotaro Nakano

In December 2023, Maestro Roger Kalia announced his decision to step down as Music Director of Symphony New Hampshire at the end of the 2024-25 season. In response, Executive Director Deanna Hoying swiftly assembled a Music Director Search Committee comprising board members, musicians, and community leaders to identify his successor.

The Music Director Search Committee

  • Co-Chairs: Bob Oot (Board) & Wes Hopper (Musician/Trombone)

  • Musicians: Mackenzie Austin (Principal Clarinet), Seeun Oh (Viola), Jeffrey Bluhm (Principal Timpani & Percussion)

  • Board Members: Joe Kenny, Don McDonah, Ash Saxena

  • Community Representatives: Russ Grazier (Portsmouth Music and Arts Center), Sal Prizio (Capitol Center for the Arts), Krishna Mangipudi (Retired Teacher)

The Search Process

Selecting the right consultant was a crucial first step. Hoying noted, "When Nick Adams’ name came up as a music director search consultant, it was a unanimous decision. Nick brings years of expertise in music director searches, and as a former SNH Director of Operations, he deeply understands both our organization and our community."

Under Adams’ guidance, the committee crafted a job description and reviewed applications. "We were committed to a local search within a two-hour radius," Hoying explained. "We believe having an artistic leader embedded in New Hampshire’s cultural fabric will shape our programming and community engagement."

Adams was confident in the search strategy, stating, "Every search is unique, and understanding an organization’s culture and aspirations is key. Being near Boston, we had an exceptional talent pool, and we didn’t need to expand beyond our initial radius."

The committee initially received 30 applications, narrowing the field to 20 semi-finalists who submitted video interviews. Ten candidates advanced to Zoom interviews, where they discussed programming philosophies, rehearsal strategies, education, and fundraising. Following extensive deliberation, five outstanding finalists were selected.

Hoying reflected, "Each of these conductors brings remarkable expertise and vision. Now, it’s about how they engage with our musicians, audience, and broader community."

The Final Stage

The final and most public phase of the selection process will unfold during the 2025-26 Classics season. Each finalist will curate and conduct a concert while participating in meet-and-greet events across New Hampshire. Audience members will have the opportunity to provide feedback through post-concert surveys.

Looking Ahead

As Symphony New Hampshire embarks on this transformative journey, the organization invites its audience to be part of the decision-making process. Through concerts and community events, New Hampshire residents will help shape the future of their orchestra. The next Music Director will not only lead the ensemble but also play a vital role in the artistic and cultural evolution of Symphony New Hampshire and the communities it serves.

Tianhui Ng