The Dayton Philharmonic has introduced Keitaro Harada as its fifth Music director.

During the 2024-25 season, Harada will serve as the Music and Artistic Director Designate before assuming full leadership in 2025.

In his statement, Harada expressed enthusiasm for joining DPAA, citing the organization's integration of orchestra, opera, and ballet, as well as Dayton's cultural richness and artistic vitality. He highlighted the potential for collaborative ventures unique to DPAA, reflecting on past performances that revealed the boundless creativity of the ensemble and the community. Harada expressed gratitude for the opportunity to take on the role of Music and Artistic Director.

Harada currently holds the position of Music Director at the Savannah Philharmonic since the 2020–21 season and serves as Permanent Conductor of the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra. He is also a frequent conductor with the NHK Symphony Orchestra and was honored with the 2023 Sir Georg Solti Conducting Award.