Trending Now - Boston Symphony Orchestra Parts Ways With Conductor Nelsons

WHO:

Andris Nelsons, music director of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO)

Chad Smith, president and CEO of the BSO

BSO’s Board of Trustees

Yo-Yo Ma, cellist

WHAT:

Andris Nelsons is leaving as music director of the BSO after 13 seasons.

The BSO's board decided not to renew Nelsons' contract.

Nelsons' tenure will conclude in August 2027, at the end of the Tanglewood season.

The BSO stated that it and Nelsons were “not aligned on future vision.”

Nelsons expressed commitment to the orchestra in a letter, stating: “I am unwaveringly committed to you and our work together.”

The BSO won two Grammy Awards in February 2026, including for the recording “Shostakovich: The Cello Concertos.”

WHERE:

Boston Symphony Orchestra, Boston, Massachusetts

Tanglewood Music Center, the orchestra’s summer home

Carnegie Hall, New York City (where Nelsons made his BSO debut)

WHEN:

Nelsons made his BSO debut in March 2011.

He was announced as music director in May 2013.

His five-year contract began with the 2014-15 season.

Contract extensions were announced in 2015 and 2020.

In January 2024, the BSO announced Nelsons' contract would become “evergreen” and “rolling.”

The decision to not renew his contract was announced on March 6, 2026.

WHY:

The BSO's board cited a lack of alignment on future vision as the reason for not renewing Nelsons' contract.

The BSO expressed gratitude for Nelsons' 13 years of service and contributions.

HOW:

The announcement was made via email from Chad Smith and the BSO’s Board of Trustees.

Nelsons communicated his commitment to the orchestra through a letter to its members.

Andris Nelsons will be stepping down as music director of the Boston Symphony Orchestra after 13 seasons, with his tenure concluding in August 2027 at the end of the Tanglewood season. The BSO's Board of Trustees decided not to renew his contract, citing a lack of alignment on future vision, while Nelsons expressed his unwavering commitment to the orchestra in a letter to its members. This announcement follows the BSO's recent success, having won two Grammy Awards in February for the recording “Shostakovich: The Cello Concertos.”