The Boston Symphony Orchestra and Music Director Andris Nelsons have announced that Alexander Velinzon has been promoted to the position of first associate concertmaster of the BSO and concertmaster of the Boston Pops, effective immediately.

Velinzon, who joined the BSO in 2000, previously served as assistant concertmaster from 2005 and was promoted to associate concertmaster in 2015. In his new role, he will occupy the Helen Horner McIntyre chair, a position endowed for perpetuity. Velinzon will be the second highest-ranking member of the first violin section.

Andris Nelsons, BSO Music Director and Head of Conducting at Tanglewood, expressed enthusiasm about Velinzon's promotion, stating, "We are delighted to elevate Alexander Velinzon to first associate concertmaster. Throughout the past decade, working with 'Sasha' has been a pleasure for both the orchestra and me, and I eagerly anticipate collaborating with him and Nathan Cole as we embark on an exciting new chapter with our first violin section this season."

Velinzon remarked, "I am honored to be appointed to this new role by Maestro Nelsons. Working with him and my remarkable colleagues at the BSO has been an incredible experience, and I look forward to many years of collaboration with our new Concertmaster, Nathan Cole."

In addition to his work with the BSO, Velinzon has performed with prestigious ensembles including the London Philharmonic, Rotterdam Philharmonic, WDR Symphony Orchestra in Germany, Seoul Philharmonic, Pittsburgh Symphony, Seattle Symphony, and Seattle Chamber Music Society.