Thomas Adès to succeed John Adams in LA Phil’s new music role

The composer joins a renewed artistic leadership team for 2027/28, alongside jazz vocalist Samara Joy and Mexican singer-songwriter Silvana Estrada.

Thomas Adès will succeed John Adams as the Los Angeles Philharmonic’s Creative Chair for New Music, as the organization renews its artistic leadership team ahead of Daniel Harding’s arrival as music director in the 2027/28 season.

The appointments also include Samara Joy as Creative Chair for Jazz, succeeding Herbie Hancock, and Silvana Estrada as the first holder of a newly created position, Creative Chair for Latin Music. Adams and Hancock will receive emeritus titles, maintaining their association with the organization.

Adès to advise on commissions and Green Umbrella

In his new role, Adès will advise the LA Phil on commissioning activities and its Green Umbrella contemporary music series, which celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2027.

The appointment builds on a longstanding relationship with the orchestra as both composer and guest conductor. The LA Phil’s recording of his ballet score Dante, conducted by Gustavo Dudamel, won the 2024 Grammy Award for Best Orchestral Performance.

Adams will become Creative Chair for New Music Emeritus in 2027/28. He remains active in the current season, with Green Umbrella programming and concerts marking his 80th birthday.

New leadership for jazz and Latin music

Joy will oversee the organization’s annual jazz series and guide educational initiatives. She succeeds Hancock, who has held the position since 2010 and will become Creative Chair for Jazz Emeritus.

Estrada’s newly established role will encompass Latin music across the LA Phil’s venues, collaborations with guest artists and continued involvement with Youth Orchestra Los Angeles, known as YOLA. Her previous appearances with the organization include performances with Dudamel and the orchestra in 2023.

The appointments broaden the team taking shape around Harding, alongside previously announced artistic leaders including Creative Director Esa-Pekka Salonen and Composer-in-Residence Joe Hisaishi.