HAMPTON ROADS, VA [October 26, 2023] The Virginia Symphony Orchestra (VSO) has announced the extension of Music Director Eric Jacobsen’s contract through the 2026-27 season. From his first concert as Music Director with superstar saxophonist Branford Marsalis, Eric has been steadfast in his efforts to bring world-renowned artists and world-class concerts to Hampton Roads.
“We are so excited and honored to have Eric extend for an additional three seasons,” says Dr. Andrea Warren VSO President and CEO. “During my time here, I have had the privilege of seeing how dedicated and committed he is to this orchestra; it’s very awe-inspiring. He takes time to not only work intimately with the orchestra, but he is also very passionate about our community and making real connections. He doesn’t do anything with minimal effort. He goes in with his full heart and always exceeds expectations. We are extremely blessed to continue this relationship, and we look forward to continuing to bring musical excellence to our community.”
“His talent truly speaks for itself,” stated Tim Faulkner, VSO Board Chair. I have had the pleasure of seeing Eric from his first day with us and it has been an amazing journey, to say the least. His spirit is infectious, and I’m just thrilled to have him here with us for more seasons. I know the caliber of artists he brings to the area, and it is unsurpassed. The maestro’s artistic excellence shines through the performances that the orchestra brings to area audiences.”
During his tenure with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, Eric has been working tirelessly to make the orchestra approachable to everyone. Strengthening ties within the community is one of Eric’s guiding forces. He’s not only worked closely with local artists, but he has also conducted their pieces. Through Eric, the VSO has commissioned and premiered works from esteemed artists like Chris Thile, Gabriel Kahane, Juhi Bansal, and Curtis Stewart.
“I am thrilled to continue to build on this incredible relationship with the VSO,” stated Eric Jacobsen. “The past several years have been so rewarding as we, the orchestra, have grown in both our artistry and our important work in our community and education programs. We’ve had concerts with the most amazing artists like Yo-Yo Ma, recording projects with Gil Shaham and Bela Fleck, and community partnerships with our incredible friends at Teens With A Purpose and The Rhythm Project…just to name a few! We really look forward to continuing to expand our programming and audiences. I am so grateful for how welcoming the Hampton Roads community has been to me and I can’t wait for more ahead!”
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As the region’s most celebrated musical, educational, and entrepreneurial arts organization, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra continues to challenge expectations and push the boundaries of what an American orchestra can be. Innovation and excellence are at the heart of the VSO’s narrative. The VSO has received national attention for its unique mission serving a home area of 1.7 million across the diverse communities of southeastern Virginia. Through appearances at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall and its commitment to adventurous programming, the VSO and its musicians have been highlighted in the media including The New York Times, The Washington Post, National Public Radio, and BBC Worldwide News.
As the largest performing arts organization in southeastern Virginia, the VSO and VSO Chorus present more than 150 concerts and events annually for more than 100,000 residents and visitors. Recent innovations include health and wellness programs, including interactive therapeutic experiences for people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and adopting welcoming concert environments for those who are neurodiverse. Since 2019, the VSO has been recognized nationally for striving to reflect the region’s ethnic and racial diversity in its members, its programming, and its leadership.
The selection of the young and dynamic conductor Eric Jacobsen as music director in 2021 was another bold step forward for the VSO, further expanding its vision to attract wider and larger audiences with engaging concert experiences and creative and relevant programming. Rounding out the artistic leadership team is Norfolk native Thomas Wilkins in the role of Principal Guest Conductor, reflecting the VSO’s commitment to tell its community’s stories and advance the important conversations that will promote understanding and belonging among all residents.