The Las Vegas Philharmonic announced the appointment of its next Music Director, Rei Hotoda, at tonight's performance to fans and concert goers. Led by Artistic Consultant Leonard Slatkin, the orchestra and audience welcomed Hotoda to the stage and enjoyed a surprise encore - a rousing performance of Bizet's Les Toreadors from the composer's Carmen.
"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 al and si the ideal choice as the Las Vegas Philharmonic's artistic trajectory continues."
Led by a selection committee of board members, orchestra musicians, staff, and community members, the Las Vegas Philharmonic began its search for their next artistic leader in 2024. The expected two-year Music Director search ended midway due to the chemistry between Hotoda, the musicians, board and audience during her appearance leading the Philharmonic from the podium and the keyboard in May 2025.
"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."
The city's symphony orchestra will welcome Hotoda to the podium as Music Director Designate to conduct the May performance, 'Pictures at an Exhibition.'
"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.
Hotoda wil serve as Music Director for 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 wil also work closely with staff to create and oversee education programming and special projects. Hotoda wil relocate to Las Vegas with her family in the summer of 2026.
Hotoda will announce her first season with the Las Vegas Philharmonic on Valentine's Day 2026. Subscribers and first-time concertgoers can look forward to sharing with her and the Philharmonic a season filed with favorite classics and new discoverles, accessible and affordable to all.
"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. 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."
