San Rafael, CA, July 8, 2025—Marin Symphony Orchestra has announced that internationally acclaimed conductor, musician, and educator Fawzi Haimor will be its new Music Director beginning with the 2025-2026 season featuring 21 performances of nine programs from October 2025 through May 2026. Haimor has conducted distinguished orchestras in the US and around the world including the National Symphony Orchestra, Indianapolis Symphony, BBC Symphony Orchestra and BBC Philharmonic, as well as the Pittsburgh Symphony, where he served as Assistant Conductor and Resident Conductor. He was Music Director of Germany’s prestigious Württembergische Philharmonie Reutlingen, conducting the WPR in their home at the Stadthalle Reutlingen, as well as on their tours throughout Germany and Europe. Haimor’s appointment is the culmination of an international search spanning three years following the retirement of former Music Director Alasdair Neale in 2023 after 22 years on the Marin Symphony podium. Details about the 2025-26 Season may be found below; for more information about new Music Director Fawzi Haimor and the Season, visit www.marinsymphony.org .
“After a three-year search during which we reviewed applications from many extremely well-qualified candidates, we are absolutely thrilled to welcome Fawzi Haimor as our new Music Director,” said Steven Machtinger, President of the Marin Symphony’s Board of Directors and co-chair of its Search Committee. “His exceptional artistry, innovative programming ideas, passion for live orchestral music, and deep commitment to community engagement align perfectly with our vision for the orchestra’s future. We are confident that under his baton, the orchestra will reach new heights of artistic excellence and resonate with audiences old and new.”
“Fawzi Haimor is the perfect choice to succeed Alasdair Neale, as only the fourth Music Director in the Marin Symphony’s 73-year history,” commented Tod Brody, Marin Symphony Executive Director. “Fawzi’s humanity and collaborative spirit have shone so brightly in his interactions with musicians, staff, and patrons, and his work with our orchestra was first-rate. Musicians found him inspiring, intelligent, and kind, and spoke of his communication skills and his ‘comfort and confidence on the podium.’ We’ve already begun our work together, and I’m very enthused about what he will bring to the people of Marin.”
New Music Director Fawzi Haimor said, “It’s an incredible honor to join the Marin Symphony as its next Music Director. Having spent most of my life in the Bay Area, the chance to collaborate with these exceptional musicians and serve a community I care so deeply about—our community—feels both personal and profound. From the very first rehearsal, I was struck by the orchestra’s sense of purpose, artistic integrity, and collective commitment to excellence. I’ve always believed that an orchestra’s role extends beyond the stage—it’s about connection, belonging, and enriching lives through music. To contribute to that spirit here in Marin is a true privilege, and I can’t wait to begin.”
Marin Symphony’s 2025-26 season sponsors include Koret Foundation, Marin Cultural Association, Marin Independent Journal, Sequoia Living, KDFC, Bon Air Center, Unicorn Group