Savannah Philharmonic Announces Leadership Transition

Savannah Business Journal Staff Report

November 25, 2024 - The Savannah Philharmonic announced this week that Keitaro Harada will complete his time as the Music & Artistic Director on June 30, 2027.

 “We are excited to continue working with Keitaro through the 2026-27 season, which will mark his eighth season with the Savannah Philharmonic. We look forward to welcoming him back as a guest conductor for many years to come,” stated Daphne Nash, Savannah Philharmonic Board Chair. 

Keitaro Harada is armed with intensity and depth, consistently providing riveting concerts and opera performances in Asia, the Americas, and Europe. As Music and Artistic Director of the Savannah Philharmonic since the 2019-20 season, Harada has transformed the orchestra and energized its audiences throughout the community with his imaginative programs and charismatic presence. 

“Having graduated from Mercer University and starting my professional career in Georgia, being the Music & Artistic Director of the Savannah Philharmonic has been a dream come true for me. I am proud of the journey we have shared together and look forward to the exciting events we have in store over the next two and a half years,” stated Harada.  “It gives me great pleasure to thank the musicians, staff, and patrons for their continued support and commitment to our orchestra. Together, we continue to create experiences that only the SavPhil can offer in Savannah. It is my goal to leave on a high note, and following the 26/27 season is the ideal time to do so. I look forward to being inspired by the future guest conductors as we search for the next leader of the Savannah Philharmonic.”

“The Savannah Philharmonic is fortunate to have Kei’s leadership through the 2026-27 season,” said Amy Williams, Executive Director. “He is deeply dedicated to the orchestra, to our community, and to ensuring a stronger future for the arts. We are grateful for all that he is doing to build a strong foundation for our next Music and Artistic Director.”

“The Savannah Philharmonic has always welcomed the world's greatest artists to Savannah’s stages and the international search for the next Music and Artistic Director will begin in the 2025-26 season to ensure we continue expanding our programs and planning for an exciting future.”

For more information, please visit www.savannahphilharmonic.org.