Yannick Nezet-Seguin to Return as Music Director of The Philadelphia Orchestra Through 2021-22 Season

The Philadelphia Orchestra is pleased to tell all of its supporters and fans the great news it shared onstage today with its matinee audience.

In a sign of his long-term dedication to the Orchestra and Philadelphia, Yannick Nézet-Séguin has extended his tenure as music director for another five years, through the 2021-22 season. Simultaneously, the Board of Directors has renewed Chairman Richard B. Worley for a third term, through August 2018, and President and CEO Allison Vulgamore through 2017.

Heralded for inspiring and revitalizing the Orchestra, Yannick has developed a deep connection with the musicians of the ensemble that has resulted in thrilling performances. He has brought fresh inspiration to the repertoire, created new access points for community members of all backgrounds, and built audiences by transforming the concert experience. Yannick said, "The warm embrace of The Philadelphia Orchestra and its audiences has been humbling and exhilarating since I made my debut in 2008. Knowing that this love affair with the Orchestra and the City of Philadelphia will continue is an immense joy. And it is all the more gratifying that my close collaborations with both Rich and Allison will also continue."

Richard Worley has led The Philadelphia Orchestra through a remarkable transformation, including the hiring of both Allison and Yannick. He has been an ambassador and staunch advocate for the Orchestra's cultural legacy, inspiring the Philadelphia philanthropic community to give record-breaking contributions to the Orchestra. Further to today's announcement, in a gesture of extraordinary generosity and faith, Richard and his wife, Leslie Anne Miller, have given a remarkable $10-million gift from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation to the Orchestra's Comprehensive Campaign. "I am extraordinarily honored and humbled to continue in a leadership role with The Philadelphia Orchestra and to do so alongside Yannick and Allison is a privilege beyond compare," he said. "Leslie and I wanted to continue our support with this gift, and offer it as further incentive for others to join us in underpinning the success of this vibrant orchestra we so love."

Allison Vulgamore has brought innovative and visionary thinking to the Orchestra. She has spearheaded important strategic initiatives and has been instrumental in the increase of earned income and contributed revenue. Under her leadership audiences have grown and her commitment to the development of future audiences has seen measurable success. In addition she has revitalized and expanded the Orchestra's global presence. "I am honored to continue to serve this gifted organization, its leadership, and the worldwide community of our Orchestra's fans and supporters," she said. "Working alongside our extraordinary musicians, Rich, Yannick, and I have been able to not only sustain, but build on the legacy and tradition that is the soul of The Philadelphia Orchestra."

With Yannick, Richard, and Allison now firmly in place as the Association's artistic and executive leadership, they can continue to steward The Philadelphia Orchestra's artistic growth and financial stability and can all continue this magnificent journey we are on together.