The San Diego Symphony has announced that Rafael Payare will remain its Music and Artistic Director through the 2028–29 season, extending a tenure that began in 2019 and will reach a decade by the end of the new contract period.
Since his arrival, Payare has played a central role in shaping the orchestra’s artistic profile and expanding its connection with audiences. His tenure coincided with two major milestones for the institution: the opening of the Rady Shell at Jacobs Park on the San Diego Bay and the reopening of the restored Jacobs Music Center in downtown San Diego.
“Rafael’s vision for the orchestra and his inspiring musicianship have transformed our Orchestra,” said President and CEO Martha Gilmer, noting the ensemble’s artistic growth, community programs, and the addition of 26 new musicians during this period. Gilmer added that strengthening the orchestra’s regional, national, and international reach remains a priority.
Payare highlighted the momentum of the partnership:
“The artistic partnership I share with my wonderful San Diego Symphony continues to thrive… Together, we’ll continue to deepen the orchestra’s artistry, achieve new heights, and keep expanding the repertoire.”
A graduate of Venezuela’s El Sistema, Payare began his musical career as a horn player and later studied conducting with José Antonio Abreu. He won the Malko Competition for Young Conductors in 2012 and went on to hold posts with the Ulster Orchestra and the Castleton Festival before joining the San Diego Symphony in 2019. Since 2022–23, he has also served as Music Director of the Montreal Symphony Orchestra.
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