CHAUTAUQUA – Chautauqua Institution has extended its contract with Rossen Milanov, Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra music director and principal symphonic conductor, for four years.

The extension follows 10 seasons of CSO programming led by Milanov on Chautauqua Institution’s Amphitheater stage.

“I am overjoyed that Chautauqua Institution will continue to be blessed with Maestro Milanov’s leadership in the coming years,” said Laura Savia, Chautauqua vice president of performing and visual arts. “Rossen is a consummate musician, a discerning leader and a brilliant and collaborative colleague. Whether commissioning a work by a living composer or preparing a Mahler symphony, his conducting acumen ensures the highest quality of artistry on our Amphitheater stage. Rossen’s work embodies one of Chautauqua’s deepest-held values, ‘excellence and creativity in the appreciation, performance, and teaching of the arts,’ both onstage and off.”

Throughout his tenure, Milanov has conducted 11 to 15 unique programs each summer featuring major symphonic repertoire, contemporary American composers, and commissions. He leads or advises on all aspects of programming and personnel for the CSO, which performs 24 concerts each summer. Under Milanov’s baton, the CSO has performed with major dance companies such as the Washington Ballet, Houston Ballet and Paul Taylor Dance. His mentorship and leadership have had lasting effects on those who have worked with and played for the CSO, including through the selection of Fellows who have landed permanent positions in orchestras across the nation, including the CSO.

Milanov is credited with raising the orchestra’s artistic level, making the CSO one of the highest-attended programs in the institution. His leadership was also pivotal as the orchestra navigated the complexities of the pandemic and rebuilding post-pandemic.

“Rossen is a crucial figure, not just for his artistic leadership, but also for his role in preserving the arts’ centrality to Chautauqua, exemplified in our much anticipated week with Renée Fleming ‘Exploring the Transformative Power of Music.’ As we approach our 150th anniversary, he is a central leader whom we honor and celebrate,” said Deborah Sunya Moore, Chautauqua senior vice president and chief program officer.

The Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra will embark upon its 95th season during Chautauqua Institution’s 150th Anniversary Summer Assembly that runs from June 22 through Aug. 25.

“I am thrilled to continue serving Chautauqua Institution in such an important time when we celebrate the sesquicentennial and look forward to a future that will make the Institution more vital, relevant and unique,” Milanov said. “Chautauqua is a special place for me. I admire the perfect combination of intellectual curiosity, inspiring art, beautiful nature and amazing opportunities to create life-long friendships. I love the musicians of the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra and their ability to inspire with their performances, connect with our enthusiastic audiences, and be the connective tissue for all the art forms in Chautauqua.”