J. Mark Cantrell
The Nashville Symphony has named J. Mark Cantrell as the organization’s new president and CEO. Cantrell’s appointment comes after a nationwide search sparked by the retirement of longtime Nashville Symphony leader Alan Valentine, who served in the role for 28 years.
President and CEO will step aside at conclusion of 2025-26 season after 28-year run
Cantrell, who will officially assume the position on Aug. 1., comes to Nashville Symphony from the Colorado Symphony in Denver, where he served as president and CEO. In that role, Cantrell negotiated successful collective bargaining agreements and helped secure a $90 million city bond commitment for the renovation of a concert hall.
The announcement follows the Nashville Symphony having announced in February that veteran conductor Leonard Slatkin will serve as music director through the 2028-29 season.
Cantrell has also previously served as president and CEO of the Florida Orchestra, CEO of the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra and executive director of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition, Cantrell had a 20-year career as a bass trombonist for the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Boston Pops, Boston Ballet and Boston Lyric Opera.
"This is an exciting day for the Nashville Symphony," Mary Cavarra, chair of the Nashville Symphony board of directors, says in a press release. "The board was looking for a leader who could build on the symphony's extraordinary legacy while guiding us into our next chapter. We found that leader in Mark Cantrell. He brings the experience, integrity, and vision to strengthen this organization, support our musicians and staff, and deepen our connection with the community we serve."
Checking in with the orchestra’s newly appointed music director as he prepares to accept the Lincoln Medal
The board worked with Boston-based Arts Consulting Group on the nationwide search, with Teresa Sebastian chairing the board’s CEO search committee.
"Mark distinguished himself through his record of financial leadership, fundraising success, and thoughtful, collaborative approach," Sebastian says in the release. "He is an accomplished musician who understands orchestral life from the stage as well as the executive office. That combination gives him a unique perspective, and we're confident he is the right leader to guide the Nashville Symphony into its next era."
This article was first published by our sister publication Nashville Post.
