MPTON ROADS, VA [November 6, 2023] The Virginia Symphony Orchestra (VSO) has announced the extension of Principal Guest Conductor Thomas Wilkins’s contract through the 2026-27 season. From a student at Norfolk’s Booker T. Washington High School to the principal conductor of the Hollywood Bowl, Maestro Wilkins has had an inspiring journey to becoming an internationally renowned conductor.
Dr. Andrea Warren, VSO President and CEO said, “Thomas is a beacon of light to this orchestra and our community. He is a walking inspiration, and we are elated to have him return for three more seasons. He has shown that with hard work and determination, the sky is the limit. His passion for music and unwavering commitment to the VSO has greatly contributed to the growth and success of our organization. We are so lucky to have him as our Principal Guest Conductor and I’m ready to see what marvelous things await us.”
“We are SO fortunate to have Thomas extend his contract with the VSO,” stated Music Director Eric Jacobsen. His artistry, expertise, thoughtfulness, and connection to our community and orchestra is unmatched. I look forward to the incredible concerts Thomas is planning next and feel so grateful to have him as a colleague and a partner in the orchestra.”
Thomas Wilkins is the VSO’s very first Principal Guest Conductor and it’s been an incredible experience. During his tenure with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, Maestro Wilkins has conducted for prominent artists like Victor Wooten, Julia Bullock, and James Carter. Not only has he been a staple in the Hampton Roads area as a conductor, but he also works tirelessly in the community. Thomas’s renewal is a reflection of VSO’s commitment to fostering artistic excellence and ensuring the continued growth and innovation of our organization. As he often says, “I didn’t choose music; music chose me.”
“I am immensely grateful to continue in partnership with the VSO,” stated Principal Guest Conductor Thomas Wilkins. The musicians’ true commitment to making great music, and the entire organization’s genuine love for every community we serve, is not only a source of great inspiration but certainly something I am proud to be a part of.”
Maestro Wilkins will be conducting his first concerts of the 23/24 season this weekend. Tickets are on sale now at Brahms & Dvořák with Thomas Wilkins | 11/9-11/10 – Virginia Symphony Orchestra.
###
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.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 6, 2023
Contact: De’Jonna Mayo, Communications Manager
Phone: 757.213.1424
Email: dmayo@virginiasymphony.org
Twitter: @VASymphony
Facebook: facebook.com/virginiasymphony