The Hartford Symphony Orchestra is proud to announce that HSO Music Director Carolyn Kuan has signed a new, three-year contract extension that will continue her commitment to the HSO through the 2026-2027 season. Maestro Kuan was chosen as the HSO’s 10^th Music Director in 2011. Her initial three-year contract was extended for two additional years in 2014, an additional six years in 2015, and again in spring of 2021. Her new contract begins with the 2024-2025 season.

For more than a decade, Maestro Kuan has continued to elevate the artistic excellence of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra through exceptional and innovative programming. She has introduced repertoire featuring unique instruments to HSO audiences, including the koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument, and the pipa, a Chinese lute, as well as sitar. She has welcomed a wide and diverse range of special guests to join the HSO including dancers, actors, puppeteers, and visual artists, and incorporated a vast array of multimedia content into performances throughout her tenure. She has created artistic partnerships with dozens of local artists and arts organizations, establishing herself as an invaluable arts leader in the city of Hartford.

“I am honored to continue serving the Hartford Symphony Orchestra in my role as Music Director,” Maestro Kuan said. “HSO has been an incredibly important part of my life and it is a privilege to work with our amazing musicians, our Board and staff, and this incredible community. Being able to contribute to families, students, friends, individuals coming together to share moments of joy, discoveries and transcendence is such an inspiration to me and I am looking forward to continuing our musical journey together.” 

“We’re thrilled that our internationally renowned Music Director, Carolyn Kuan, will be with us through at least the 2026-2027 season,” said HSO’s Board Chair, Bob Bausmith. “Carolyn has a wonderful way of demystifying classical music, making it accessible and relevant to both new and seasoned audiences. She invites us on a journey of self-discovery that is unexpected, immersive, and fun, and in the process builds a richer and more diverse community.” 

“Collaborations and partnerships are key to a successful orchestra, and that is what Carolyn offers to the musicians, the administration and the community,” said HSO’s President & CEO Steve Collins.  “Carolyn’s work has elevated and pushed the HSO to new heights, breathing new energy into the concert hall with extraordinary music and outstanding musicianship. We are grateful to her commitment and look forward to the coming years.”