The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, known for its rich history of top conductors such as Fritz Reiner and Leopold Stokowski, has revealed that its upcoming music director will be Cristian Macelaru. The Romanian-born maestro, aged 44, has been instrumental in championing music education and will take on the role of music director in the 2025-26 season following a four-year term.
Macelaru’s Vision for the Orchestra
Macelaru, who currently holds prestigious positions in Europe with the Orchestre National de France and the WDR Sinfonieorchester in Cologne, Germany, expressed his excitement about joining the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. He emphasized his vision of making classical music more accessible to a wider audience and his commitment to expanding music education efforts within the Cincinnati community.
Macelaru stated, “I’m very disappointed when I see so many orchestras and colleagues who feel that the music should speak for itself. We have to tell people why this music is so beautiful and how they can discover even more beauty in it. I have done this all my life. And now I feel like I have a platform that is even more evident and more visible to be able to spread this message.”
Jonathan Martin, the President and Chief Executive of the Cincinnati Symphony, highlighted Macelaru’s conducting talents and his dedication to enhancing the orchestra’s community engagement. Martin mentioned that Macelaru’s appointment was not only based on his musical abilities but also his commitment to expanding the orchestra’s impact in the local area.
