Madison’s largest performing arts organization, the Madison Symphony Orchestra (MSO), is seeking a new music director to succeed John DeMain, who has served in the role for over 30 years, the Wisconsin State Journal reports. So far, over 100 people have applied for the job.
One of the candidates for the position, Nicholas Hersh, this weekend will serve as the first of three guest conductors scheduled to lead the 91-piece orchestra this season. Hersh will conduct the “Visions” concert in Overture Hall Friday–Sunday. Michael Stern will conduct the Nov. 15–17 concert, and Joseph Young the April 11–13 concert.
Many additional finalists will be scheduled to conduct MSO concerts in the 2025–26 season, in which the organization will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Those names will be released in March 2025 with the reveal of that season. Additional candidates may be scheduled beyond the 2025–26 season if necessary.
