SLO Symphony Leadership Transition Announced

Photo: Lydia Sewell

Earlier this year, Maestro Andrew Sewell shared that he would step down from his role at the San Luis Obispo Symphony in 2028. Maestro Sewell has now announced that he will step down as Music Director as of June 30, 2027.

“It has been a privilege to serve the San Luis Obispo community since 2017 and I am deeply grateful for the many inspiring performances given by the orchestra. With ten seasons as music director, the time is right for me to step away and spend more time with my family. – Andrew Sewell, SLO Symphony Music Director

His final concert as conductor is scheduled for April 24, 2027.

The Board of Directors remains committed to the inspiring and high-quality performances that have been standard under Maestro Sewell’s direction. The 2027-2028 season will feature invited guest conductors. The plans for a search for our future music director and conductor are well underway. Details will be released in the coming months, and music director candidates are expected to be scheduled for performances in the 2028–2029 season. We look forward to honoring Andrew’s tenure with you for the remainder of the season.

“We ask the community to join us in celebrating Andrew’s 10th and final season with the SLO Symphony. We are forever grateful for the vision and musicianship he has brought to the symphony, and for his passion and flair at the podium.” – Matthew Green, President, SLO Symphony Board of Directors 

When is Andrew stepping down? When is Andrew’s last concert? 

Andrew Sewell’s contract ends in 2027. His last scheduled concert with the SLO Symphony will be April 24, 2027.

How will you find a replacement Music Director? 

The Board of Directors will form a search committee who will guide the steps of the search. This committee will identify the timeline for hiring a new music director, and may solicit candidates through a public search, interview prospective candidates, or propose guest roles at concerts.

Can I join the search committee? 

This committee will be made up of a cross section of symphony stakeholders. Interest in joining the committee may be submitted to Matthew Green, Board President. 

Why is Andrew stepping down from the SLO Symphony? 

“It has been a privilege to serve the San Luis Obispo community since 2017 and I am deeply grateful for the many inspiring performances given by the orchestra. With ten seasons as music director, the time is right for me to step away and spend more time with my family. – Andrew Sewell, SLO Symphony Music Director