Symphony honors Amado with music director laureate title
After a successful 20-year tenure, Maestro David Amado and the Delaware Symphony board announced his appointment to the role of music director laureate beginning in July 2023.
This marks the first time in the DSO’s 117-year history that the organization will honor an individual with this distinguished title.
Amado is stepping back at a time of unprecedented institutional stability, allowing the Delaware Symphony Orchestra to continue its growth and focus on striving to become increasingly relevant to the communities it serves.
"I am proud of our work together over the last two decades – from two Latin Grammy-nominated recordings to the exceptional artistic growth I have led. The DSO will always have a warm place in my heart, and I look forward to following its continued evolution, knowing it will always be a valued cultural asset. I am grateful to the musicians, the staff, the board, and our community for being supportive of our institution, and of me. I look forward to hearing the orchestra from the other side of the proscenium,” said Amado.
Following a nationwide search, Amado assumed the role of music director for the Delaware Symphony Orchestra in 2003. During his tenure, he saw the organization through difficult times post-recession in 2012 and the challenges presented by the pandemic in recent years.
As music director laureate, Amado will continue to appear with the DSO, conducting selected concerts in the 2023-24 season and beyond.
"Maestro Amado has achieved a remarkable milestone of continuous leadership as our music director through some of the most tumultuous years that arts organizations have navigated. His easy rapport with audiences, musicianship and dedication to advancing professional musical performance in Delaware are extraordinary,” said David Fleming, DSO board president.
"David's dedication to the organization and professionalism are truly outstanding. The orchestra's artistic level has soared under his leadership, and the success of his tenure and contributions to the community are remarkable,” said J.C. Barker, DSO executive director.
In addition to concerts led by Amado, the DSO will welcome guest conductors next season, with a formal music director search beginning in 2024.
The DSO will continue to honor David Amado's 20th anniversary throughout the current season, ending with a celebratory performance of Beethoven's triumphant “Ninth Symphony” Friday, April 28, at the Grand Opera House in Wilmington.
Established over 100 years ago, the Delaware Symphony Orchestra is among the premier regional orchestras in the U.S., and the only professional orchestra in the state. The DSO’s performance season presents classical and contemporary repertoires in full orchestra and chamber music concerts in smaller ensemble pieces. Along with its educational programs and performances, and other special events, the DSO welcomes audiences of all ages, backgrounds and experiences throughout the state.
