Colombian conductor Andrés Lopera will be the Richmond Symphony Orchestra's (RSO) fourth Music Director. Lopera's appointment comes after an extensive two-year search, resulting in a field of fifty-three candidates. The ion panel nominated five finalists, all of whom undertook a brief trial with the orchestra — with Lopera emerging victorious. "Working with all the musicians of the orchestra was an incredible experience," Lopera said of his trial. "Everyone was very kind and receptive — qualities of a grand orchestra that turned into performing a terrific concert." "I look a lot of potential, and I believe that the core values of the Richmond Symphony align with my mission and vision as an artist. It truly was a grand pleasure to meet this incredible Richmond community. It's inspiring to perceive the pride everyone has for the symphony orchestra, and it's an honor to be ed as your music director."

One of the leading Latin-American conductors in the United States, Andrés Lopera holds a master's degree the New England Conservatory and studied with Hugh Wolff, Andrew Litton, David Loebel, Carlos Kalmar, Ludovic Morlot, and Marin Alsop. He's presently the Associate Conductor of the Columbus Symphony and Music Director of the Columbus Youth Symphony Orchestra. He's directed performances with orchestras such as the CO Symphony, OR Symphony, Toledo Symphony, New World Symphony, and Portland Columbia Symphony Orchestra. "Lopera brings unbounding energy and passion to his role," said Jeff Carter, the President of the RSO's board. "He's excited to work with the RSO’s talented musicians, be engaged in the local community, and inspire a rising generation of music enthusiasts," Carter continued. "With vision and enthusiasm, Maestro Lopera will carry the energy of this season into the next."