Michael Hall is new music director of Kennett Symphony

Posted by Press Release on May 28, 2014

The Board of Directors of the Kennett Symphony of Chester County is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Hall as music director. Hall’s tenure as the new artistic leader of the KSCC will begin with the opening of the 2014-2015 season in September, 2014.

“We are thrilled with the unanimous selection of Michael Hall as our new Music Director,” stated Paul Merluzzi, president of the board of directors. “Michael brings a wealth of orchestral experience to the KSCC and our community, and we are fortunate to have him join us. His artistic vision, commitment to orchestral performance at the highest level, and welcoming, engaging personality are the perfect fit for the KSCC and our community at this very exciting time in our orchestra’s development.”

The selection of Hall concludes a 17-month search process that drew over 100 candidates from around the country and internationally. The eight-member Search Committee included members of the Board of Directors and musicians from the Symphony.

"I could not be more excited to be the next Music Director of the KSCC,” said Hall. "I am eager to collaborate with the Board, musicians, staff, and volunteers so that together we can share great music with our community. It is with great enthusiasm that I take on this role to bring the KSCC to new artistic heights."

To view a video message from Michael Hall, please visit: http://youtu.be/DJGU6YJ8Uvs

Hall is known for his inspired performances, imaginative programming, and passion for developing new audiences. Hall’s career includes guest appearances with some of the finest orchestras in North America, including the Houston Symphony, Toronto Symphony and Vancouver Symphony, among others. In Central America, Hall has worked with the Orquesta Sinfionica Nacional de Costa Rica. He has a special relationship with the Tucson Symphony, where he has been a frequent guest conductor over the past eight seasons. Formerly Music Director of the Southwest Florida Symphony from 2007-2012, Hall’s drive for artistic excellence, innovative thematic programming, and collaborations with celebrated guest artists resulted in unprecedented artistic growth, audience praise, and enthusiastic reviews. Before being appointed Music Director of the Southwest Florida Symphony, Hall held the position of Associate Conductor with the Pacific Symphony in California where he developed innovative Family Concerts based on his own original scripts. Hall’s success in California led to his initial three year position being extended to an unprecedented six year tenure. Hall holds a Master’s degree in conducting from the University of Michigan, studying with renowned conducting pedagogue Gustav Meier, and a DipRAM from the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he worked with Sir Colin Davis. While studying in England, Hall also held the position of Assistant conductor of the Havant Symphony Orchestra in the UK. Hall was a finalist in the 2003 International Conducting Competition in Besançon France, and was awarded Third Prize in the 2004 Cadaques Orchestra International Conducting Competition in Spain.