Oregon Symphony Extends Contract with Music Director David Danzmayr 

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Oregon Symphony is pleased to announce that Jean Vollum Music Director David Danzmayr has extended his contract through the 2028/29 season.   

“We are thrilled to continue our artistic journey with David,” said Paul Snyder, Interim President & CEO. “His leadership has inspired extraordinary music-making on stage, and his programming has brought both beloved classics and bold new works to our audiences. David’s vision reflects the cultural vitality of Portland, and we are excited to share this next chapter with our community.”  

Since joining the Oregon Symphony, Danzmayr has strengthened the orchestra’s sound with an approach rooted in empathy, balance, and a deep commitment to audience experience. He has paired European masterworks with new American music, highlighting living composers including Andy Akiho, Gabriela Lena Frank, Gabriella Smith, Nathalie Joachim, and Portland-based artists Kenji Bunch, Giancarlo Castro D’Addona, Nancy Ives, and Gabriel Kahane. He has also launched innovative projects such as Naked Classics, Open Music, concerts at the Patricia Reser Center for the Arts, and two new festivals.  

He has significantly advanced the orchestra’s sound and has brought his artistry to every performance, regardless of the piece of music we perform. Several of our visiting artists and conductors have shared these perspectives with the organization. 

“David’s dedication to the Oregon Symphony and to Portland is remarkable. His commitment to the orchestra and to sharing powerful music with our community has energized our audiences and strengthened our role in the city’s cultural life. We are proud to continue this journey together,” said Courtney Angeli, Board Chair of the Oregon Symphony.   

The result of Danzmayr’s work has led to growing audiences, increased enthusiasm from concertgoers, and rising earned revenue each year since the orchestra’s return to live performances. His contract extension affirms the Symphony’s commitment to building on this momentum and enriching Portland’s vibrant cultural landscape.

Media Contact: Tanner Hanley, Vice President for Marketing & Communications, thanley@orsymphony.org