Guerrero tapped as new conductor of Grant Park Music Festival
The Grant Park Music Festival announced Tuesday that it has appointed Giancarlo Guerrero as artistic director and principal conductor effective immediately.
Guerrero, 55, was one of three finalists who conducted Grant Park concerts last summer. The Costa-Rican-born conductor’s initial contract is for a three-year span through 2028. He will conduct four weeks of concerts in the 2025 season.
“From the moment I first walked onto the stage of the glorious Pritzker Pavilion, and looked out at the sea of people – a snapshot of the entire city of Chicago – it was immediately apparent what a gift the Grant Park Music Festival is to the community,” said Guerrero in a statement released by the festival. “I felt such a natural, easy connection with these incredible musicians – including both the stellar orchestra and the spectacular chorus. I recognized sparks flying, musically speaking, from my first interactions with them from the podium.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Giancarlo Guerrero to Chicago to lead what is regarded as the United States’ most important free classical music institution,” said Paul Winberg, president and CEO of the Grant Park Orchestral Association. “Giancarlo is not only a brilliant conductor with a stellar reputation; he has a history of curating programs that are exciting, surprising and inventive. It is also clear that our musicians are tremendously excited about working with him, and that his concerts last summer sparked palpable energy from our audience.
“We are confident that our future is in excellent hands with Giancarlo at the podium.”
Guerrero succeeds Carlos Kalmar, who stepped down from the same duo position in August after 25 years. Kalmar was given the title of conductor laureate and will return in future seasons.
Guerrero, a six-time Grammy winner, is in his 16th and final season leading the Nashville Symphony Orchestra. He is music director designate of the Sarasota Orchestra.
The 2025 Grant Park Music Festival season will be announced in January.
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