June 25, 2024 | BALTIMORE, MD – The Baltimore Chamber Orchestra (BCO) has named
internationally acclaimed conductor Robert Moody as Music Director. A frequent collaborator
with many of the world’s leading composers, ensembles and performers including Yo-Yo Ma,
Renée Fleming, Mason Bates, Kevin Puts, Canadian Brass, Time for Three, among many
others, Maestro Moody begins his three-year contract in the 2024-25 season.
“I am completely delighted that Robert Moody has accepted our offer to become the BCO’s new
Music Director.” Search Committee Chair and BCO Trustee Kim Golden said. “After leading the
Orchestra in a challenging program featuring two rarely performed modern masterpieces by
Adolphus Hailstork and Ellen Taaffe Zwilich and a sparkling interpretation of Beethoven’s
Symphony No. 4, the strong connection between Robert and our musicians was undeniable.
In addition to his position as Music Director of the Baltimore Chamber Orchestra, Robert
Moody currently serves as Music Director for Arizona Musicfest, the Memphis Symphony
Orchestra, and as Principal Conductor for Lakeland Opera (FL). Some of his 2024-25 season
debuts include the Kansas City Symphony and Tulsa Opera alongside opera superstar Renée
Fleming and internationally with the Tampere Philharmonic in Finland, and Timisoara
Philharmonic in Rumania.
“I’m so honored to be asked to lead this magnificent Mid-Atlantic orchestra into its next chapter.”
Robert Moody said. “From our very first rehearsal I sensed an incredibly strong chemistry
between me and the players. This orchestra already plays at a level of artistry on par with some
of the best orchestras in the country and the synergy we have are the perfect ingredients for
exponential growth. I can’t wait to get started!”
Following a year-long search during the 2023-24 season that saw five finalists selected from a
pool of more than 130 applicants from 9 countries and 41 states conduct the Orchestra, Moody
will serve as only the 3rd Music Director in the orchestra’s 40-year history. The Music Director
Search Committee was composed of BCO musicians, Trustees, subscribers, and Baltimore
area community leaders who were unanimous in their selection of Robert Moody.
“Collaborating with Robert to present two very different and challenging solo pieces during the
orchestra’s season finale concert in May was a very special experience for both of us.” Search
Committee members Audrey Wright (BCO Concertmaster) and Chiara Kingsley Dieguez
(BCO Principal Viola) said. “We’ve both worked with several different conductors from across
the country, and all five Finalists during this past season, but working with Robert on a concert
where both of us performed as soloists and section leaders demonstrated an extraordinary level
of artistic excellence that will be a tremendous addition to our wonderful Orchestra.”
“I feel very fortunate to partner with a musical leader of Robert’s caliber and experience to bring
the BCO to even greater heights,” BCO’s Executive Director Ben Newman added. The BCO’s
2024-25 season will be the first in Robert Moody’s three-year contract and will be announced in
the coming weeks.
