Princeton Symphony Orchestra Appoints New Assistant Conductor

PRINCETON, NJ — Kenneth Bean has been appointed the new assistant conductor at Princeton Symphony Orchestra, the organization announced Thursday.

Bean was selected following a competitive search and audition process. He will serve as cover conductor for music director Rossen Milanov and will begin rehearsals as conductor of the Symphonic Orchestra of the Youth Orchestra of Central Jersey (YOCJ).

“I am thrilled to have Kenneth Bean as my artistic partner, and am very excited to welcome him to our team,” Milanov said. “I believe that his talent, passion for education, and love for music will make a big difference for the Princeton Symphony Orchestra.”

Bean is an instructor and conductor in the Philadelphia area, as well as an active freelance trumpeter. He earned a Bachelor of Music from the Oberlin Conservatory of Music and a Master of Music Education from Jackson State University.

He has taught at many festivals and schools, including the School District of Philadelphia, Settlement Music School, the Premier Orchestral Institute of the Mississippi Symphony, and Play On Philly.

Youth Orchestra of Central Jersey Artistic Director Phillip Pugh said that from their first meeting with Bean, staff and students felt an instant connection. “He brings a wealth of knowledge and youth orchestra experience; but most of all, he brings a warmth and love for students. We are so excited to have Kenny as our Symphonic Orchestra conductor and to continue our partnership with the Princeton Symphony Orchestra,” Pugh said.

Bean will conduct the Princeton Symphony Orchestra the weekend of February 5-6, 2022 with Armenian violinist Diana Adamyan who is making her US debut. For further details and information, visit princetonsymphony.org.

Thank you for reading. Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com

Get breaking news alerts on your phone with our app. Download here. Sign up to get Patch emails so you don't miss out on local and statewide news.