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Announcing DPO’s Sixth Music Director!

We’re thrilled to announce a new chapter in the history of the Denver Philharmonic Orchestra: Scott O’Neil has been named as our 6th Music Director!

Scott brings a distinguished legacy to the DPO, including nine years as Resident Conductor of the Colorado Symphony, where he worked with luminaries like Itzhak Perlman, Joshua Bell, Lang Lang, and The Lumineers.

Renowned for his innovative Inside the Score series, O’Neil captivates audiences by blending storytelling and musical artistry. His contributions to CPR Classical’s “Behind the Baton” series have also fostered a deeper appreciation for music throughout the community.

He made a remarkable impression on DPO audiences at our season premiere, Reflect, Renew, Reimagine, and we’re honored to have his talent and vision shaping our future.

Scott’s first official performance as Music Director will be at our season finale concert, RETROspective, on May 2 & 3. Join us for this momentous occasion as we celebrate our past, honor the present, and look forward to an inspiring future with Scott at the helm.

Let’s give Scott O’Neil a warm DPO welcome—and mark your calendars for his exciting debut this spring!

Read the full press release below:


Denver Philharmonic Orchestra Announces Scott O’Neil as Music Director: Ushering in a Bold New Era of Innovation and Excellence

Denver, CO – Denver Philharmonic Orchestra (DPO) is thrilled to announce the appointment of acclaimed conductor Scott O’Neil as its new Music Director, the sixth in the organization’s storied history. This landmark moment will kick off with his debut at the DPO’s highly anticipated season finale concert, RETROspective, on May 2 & 3, 2025.

Scott O’Neil succeeds a remarkable lineage of music directors, including the orchestra’s trailblazing founder Dr. Antonia Brico, followed by Julius Glaihengauz, Horst Buchholz, Adam Flatt, and most recently Lawrence Golan, whose tenure spanned an extraordinary 11 years from 2013 to 2024. O’Neil’s appointment signals the start of an exciting new chapter in the DPO’s 75-year legacy of musical excellence and innovation.

A Transformative Leader with a Vision for the Future

Scott O’Neil, a name already synonymous with Denver’s classical music community, is celebrated for his nine-year tenure as Resident Conductor of the Colorado Symphony, where he created groundbreaking programs like the “Inside the Score” series—immersive experiences blending storytelling, music, and visuals. His collaborations span classical icons like Itzhak Perlman and Joshua Bell to contemporary trailblazers such as The Lumineers and Seal, highlighting his ability to transcend genres and curate diverse programs.

O’Neil also extended his musical insights to radio audiences as a regular host of Behind the Baton on CPR Classical. This series explores the fascinating, often hidden stories behind some of classical music’s most iconic works, combining his expertise as a conductor and educator with a passion for demystifying the genre. His engaging storytelling has resonated deeply with listeners, offering fresh perspectives on music’s timeless relevance.

Maestro O’Neil first captivated DPO audiences at this season’s premiere concert, “Reflect, Renew, Reimagine,” and now brings his creative energy and bold vision to lead the orchestra into a vibrant new era.

“I am honored to be the newest artistic steward of this magnificent organization,” says O’Neil. “I look forward to facing the opposing challenges of innovating while preserving our traditions, growing while maintaining our foundation, and finding new ways to entertain, enlighten, and enrich our audience family while staying true to the heart of what you love most. Join us on our journey into the future, where the Denver Philharmonic’s best days are still ahead.”

RETROspective: A Musical Celebration Across Eras

O’Neil’s first performance as Music Director promises to be an extraordinary journey through Denver Philharmonic’s rich history. The concert, RETROspective, will celebrate the evolution of the orchestra with iconic works from each era of its storied past. From the Antonia Brico era to the Horst Buchholz era and through to the Lawrence Golan era, audiences will travel through time as Maestro Scott O’Neil ushers in the next era for Denver Philharmonic Orchestra.

Guests are encouraged to embrace the spirit of nostalgia by donning attire from their favorite decades, turning the event into a fun and festive “eras tour.”

Event Details

  • Friday, May 2, 2025, at 7:30 PM | Antonia Brico Stage at Central Presbyterian Church (CPC) – 1660 Sherman St, Denver, CO 80203
  • Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 3:00 PM | Mapleton Arts Center (MAC) – 7480 N. Broadway, Denver, CO 80221

Tickets:

  • $30 – Adults
  • $20 – Seniors, Healthcare, Military, First Responders
  • $12 – Students & Teachers
  • Free – Youth (18 and under)

The DPO believes music should be for everyone and will not let ticket price be a barrier. For special considerations, email tickets@denverphilharmonic.org.

For more information on RETROspective, visit denverphilharmonic.org/production/retrospective/

About the Denver Philharmonic Orchestra

Founded in 1948 by Dr. Antonia Brico, the Denver Philharmonic Orchestra has become one of Denver’s most enduring and innovative musical institutions. As the DPO celebrates its 75th anniversary, it continues to redefine the way our community experiences and engages with classical music, from Baroque to Contemporary, engaging audiences across all ages and backgrounds.