Boston Philharmonic Appoints New Managing Director, Derek Beckvold

The Boston Philharmonic, the internationally recognized organization founded in 1979 and still led by Conductor Benjamin Zander, recently appointed Derek Beckvold as its new managing director, replacing Elisabeth Christensen, who was hired twelve years ago to help create the Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra.

The Board of Directors voted unanimously to appoint Beckvold, who has been with the organization for nearly eight years, most recently as development officer and previously as education and community engagement manager. The multitalented social entrepreneur, arts administrator, educator, performing musician, composer, and conductor has performed extensively across five continents after receiving a degree from New England Conservatory; he sees music as a tool to create social change while enriching the local community.

The appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the Boston Philharmonic—composed of both the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO) and the Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (BPYO)—while remaining committed to presenting world-class performances and to contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of Boston and beyond.

In his new role, Beckvold will oversee both orchestras, working closely with Maestro Benjamin Zander and the Board of Directors to advance the organization’s artistic vision. The BPO, which is celebrating its 46th season, is dedicated to creating transformative experiences through live performances featuring inspiring renditions of celebrated masterworks in Boston’s most storied concert halls. Members of the Orchestra include professionals, students, and exceptional amateur musicians who continually inspire and educate audiences of all ages, fostering a love for classical music and its power to uplift the human spirit. As one of Boston’s premier orchestras, the BPO features professional, student, and amateur musicians who perform. The BPYO, which is entering its 13^th season, offers year-long, tuition-free orchestral and leadership training at the highest level for talented musicians between the ages of 12 and 21, as well as the opportunity to go on tours and cultural exchanges each June.

“I am grateful to Benjamin Zander and Elisabeth Christensen, both of whom I have known for twenty years, for giving me the opportunity to contribute in meaningful ways to this organization in a variety of capacities,” said Beckvold. “I look forward to seeing our community in Symphony Hall this coming year. It’s going to be a stellar season of music making.”

For more information about the Boston Philharmonic and its 2024-25 season, visit https://www.bostonphil.org.