Chia-Hsuan Lin named Rochester Symphony's new director

John Molseed, Post-Bulletin, Rochester, Minn.
·2 min read

Apr. 21—ROCHESTER — The Rochester Symphony Orchestra announced its new conductor and music director, signaling a new direction for the organization after its former leader stepped down after four decades at the helm.

Chia-Hsuan Lin, currently the associate conductor of the Richmond Symphony, was the first of four final candidates to guest conduct the Rochester Symphony Orchestra this season.

Her performance left an impression, said Joseph Mish, orchestra member, and chairman of the music director search committee.

"She inspired each section and every player to perform to their full potential," he said. "She made an immediate connection with her ease and confidence on the podium and in front of the audience."

That confidence also comes from an appreciation of the opportunity, Lin told the Post Bulletin in October in an interview previewing her performance.

Lin had been unable to play music when she suffered injuries including a broken wrist when she was hit by a driver of a car.

Being able to draw out a performance from musicians made her appreciate how fortunate she was after the ordeal, she said.

"It makes me treasure every time I'm on the podium," she said. "It made me realize that I love working with a group of people and playing together."

The 2024-25 season will be announced later this summer. In the meantime, Rochester Symphony will host formal introductions of Chia-Hsuan Lin to supporters, patrons, and the community.

"Maestro Lin is an artistic leader who understands how Rochester Symphony can touch people's lives through community engagement," said Amy Lindstrom, president and CEO of the Rochester Symphony Orchestra. "She will be a wonderful asset to the cultural and artistic fabric of our region, and we can't wait for Rochester to get to know her."

Lin succeeds Jere Lantz, who led the symphony for more than 42 years.

Lantz announced in 2022

he was stepping down.

Lantz said when he made the announcement that the decision to step down was difficult. However, he said he was excited to see a new leader take the organization in new directions after it came out of the COVID-19 pandemic in a strong position.