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LAS VEGAS PHILHARMONIC APPOINTS
REI HOTODA AS ITS NEXT MUSIC DIRECTOR
Special Concert to Celebrate the Appointment Led by Ms. Hotoda on May 9, 2026
Program Includes Works by Kevin Day, Mozart and Mussorgsky
Rei Hotoda Will Begin Her Official Tenure as Music Director in July 2026
Las Vegas, NV—The Las Vegas Philharmonic has announced the appointment of acclaimed conductor Rei Hotoda as its next music director. Ms. Hotoda will begin her official tenure as the artistic leader of the institution in July 2026, while continuing in her role as Music Director of the Fresno Philharmonic.
“It is an honor to be appointed Music Director of the Las Vegas Philharmonic. From our first collaboration, I felt an extraordinary spirit within this orchestra and a genuine connection to its community,” remarks Rei Hotoda, Music Director Designate of the Las Vegas Philharmonic. “My family and I are delighted to be making Las Vegas our new home, a city brimming with creativity and possibility. I look forward to building on that energy with these remarkable musicians as we shape the Philharmonic’s bright future together.”
“It is my great pleasure to welcome Rei Hotoda to the Las Vegas Philharmonic family. Her musicianship, ebullient personality, and leadership will be a treasure for all,” says Las Vegas Philharmonic Artistic Consultant Leonard Slatkin.
In celebration of her appointment, Ms. Hotoda—under the title of Music Director Designate—will take the podium on May 9, 2026, to lead the Las Vegas Philharmonic in a program that will include local composer Kevin Day’s Manhattan Nights and Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. Ms. Hotoda last appeared with the orchestra conducting the ensemble from the keyboard in May 2025.
Ms. Hotoda will serve as the fourth Music Director of the Las Vegas Philharmonic under a four-year contract beginning in July 2026. In addition to leading the orchestra from the podium, as Music Director, she will collaborate with the administration to develop initiatives that broaden the reach of the institution through audience development and donor stewardship. She will also work closely with staff to create and oversee education programming and special projects. Additionally, Rei will be relocating to Las Vegas with her family in the summer of 2026.
The Las Vegas Philharmonic, led by a selection committee comprised of board members, orchestra musicians, staff, and community members, began its search for its next artistic leader in 2024. “This search brought a wide range of musical styles to the Las Vegas Philharmonic patrons and musicians,” says Las Vegas Philharmonic Executive Director Alice Sauro. “Rei was not only a fan favorite, but also incredibly endearing and engaging with our musicians. We are delighted to welcome Rei to Las Vegas as we work to plan the future of this exciting organization and cannot wait to start building the next stage of our philharmonic with her.”
“On behalf of the community of Las Vegas, we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome Rei to our great city and our symphony family,” says Las Vegas Philharmonic Board Chair Jeri Crawford. “In a short time, she has inspired us all and is the ideal choice as the Las Vegas Philharmonic’s artistic trajectory continues.”
ABOUT REI
Rei Hotoda is redefining 21st-century orchestral leadership through bold artistry, innovative collaboration, and a deep commitment to community. Her programs—recognized for their compelling repertoire and advocacy of contemporary American voices—reflect both her creative vision and expressive vitality.
She is the Music Director of the Fresno Philharmonic and will concurrently serve as Music Director of the Las Vegas Philharmonic. Equally at home on the podium and at the piano, she brings a soloist’s insight and versatility to every performance. Hotoda has appeared on the podium leading several illustrious ensembles—Chicago, Dallas, St. Louis, Detroit, and San Diego—as well as the American Composers Orchestra in her Carnegie Hall debut.
Through imaginative programming and cross-disciplinary partnerships, Hotoda is shaping a more inclusive orchestral future. A champion of living composers, she features works by Juan Pablo Contreras, Damien Geter, Jessie Montgomery, and Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate, among many others.
She also serves on the Board of the League of American Orchestras and speaks nationally on equity, innovation, and leadership.
ABOUT LAS VEGAS PHILHARMONIC
Celebrating its 27th season in 2025, the Las Vegas Philharmonic enhances the lives of residents and culture of the city through impactful and enlivening performances and events. Under the direction of Artistic Consultant and internationally acclaimed Conductor Leonard Slatkin, the Philharmonic continues to inspire a lifelong appreciation of music through performances and educational experiences for the Las Vegas community. At the orchestra’s core, 76 professional musicians bring depth and variety to the organization. Each season of concerts and performances highlights local talents alongside incredible
nationally and internationally recognized guest artists on the magnificent Reynolds Hall stage.
Through music education, The Youth Concert Series, and community engagement programs, The Las Vegas Philharmonic’s commitment to Las Vegas extends from the concert hall to the classroom and beyond. As a 501(c)(3) organization, the Philharmonic’s community, education, and artistic programs are made possible by the generous donations and support of individuals and corporations.
To learn more, visit lvphil.org or call 702.258.5438. Follow the Las Vegas Philharmonic
on facebook.com/lasvegasphilharmonic, and X and Instagram @lvphil.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Raechel Alexander
917-815-8790