New England Philharmonic searches for its next leader

Music director emeritus Richard Pittman shaped legacy and learning of volunteer ensemble

By A.Z. Madonna Globe Staff,Updated October 13, 2021, 5:32 p.m.

Clockwise from top left: Adam Kerry Boyles, Tianhui Ng, Nicholas DeMaison, and Yoichi Udagawa are New England Philharmonic music director candidates who will be leading concerts. NEW ENGLAND PHILHARMONIC

In a city flush with amateur orchestras, the New England Philharmonic has spent much of the past 44 years distinguishing itself from the crowd. The groundwork was laid in the ensemble’s first decades. Then, its exemplary reputation solidified during the 23-year tenure of Richard Pittman, who became music director in 1997 and steered the orchestra headlong into challenging contemporary music — territory that would be unthinkable for the average volunteer ensemble that rehearses once a week.

Now, as the orchestra resumes rehearsing and performing after a silent season due to COVID-19, it’s doing so without its longtime leader, who suffered a severe stroke last spring. This season, the NEP is carrying out the search for a new music director — and whoever it is should be eager to continue the orchestra’s mission both on and off the podium.

Read the full article at The Boston Globe.