Orchestra Santa Monica announced that Music Director Roger Kalia will continue leading the ensemble through the 2029-30 season, extending a partnership that began in 2018.
Under Kalia's direction, the orchestra has performed regular sold-out concerts and received widespread acclaim for his conducting talent, creative programming and ability to connect with diverse audiences.
"I am honored and thrilled to continue my relationship with Orchestra Santa Monica for the next five years," Kalia said. "Over the past seven seasons, I've been so proud of what we've accomplished together—from commissioning bold new works to performing beloved masterworks, and collaborating with an incredible range of guest artists across musical genres."
Kalia praised the musicians' versatility and dedication, saying their talent "never cease to inspire me - they really can do it all."
Orchestra Board Member Raymond Knapp said Kalia "has been incredibly responsive to initiatives from us, sensing what we want to accomplish and adding his own vision to enhance our own."
OSM President Fred Scholder expressed his respect for the maestro, noting that "Roger connects wonderfully with our musicians and audiences, and he really makes the orchestra shine."
Founded in 2012, Orchestra Santa Monica's mission focuses on building a community of classical music lovers and making a positive impact through accessible live performances in the classical tradition.
The orchestra's next performance, "Mozart and Gershwin," is scheduled for June 29 at 3 p.m. at the Eli & Edythe Broad Stage, SMC Performing Arts Center.
For more information, visit https://orchestrasantamonica.org.
Edited by SMDP Staff