Montclair Orchestra Launches Program For Young Female Conductors

MONTCLAIR, NJ — The Montclair Orchestra is teaming up with the Valissima Institute to launch a pilot summer program for aspiring, young female conductors.

According to a news release from the orchestra, the two-week intensive will feature renowned conductors, including former New York Philharmonic music directors Alan Gilbert and Karina Canellakis.

The rigorous program will give elite pre-college female instrumentalists a chance to experience conducting an orchestra under the mentorship of industry professionals.

Female conductors have historically received fewer opportunities to lead orchestras, although progress has been made in recent years, the orchestra stated.

“The future for orchestras includes a diverse range of musicians on stage, including on the podium,” president Andre Weker said.

“The Montclair Orchestra is proud to be part of an initiative that leads the way for women to take on that role more prevalently, and demonstrating that previous norms will no longer be a barrier for musicians of all ages,” Weker added.

A final, free public concert will take place at South Orange Performing Arts Center in South Orange on Aug. 8.

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