We are incredibly honored to name outgoing Music Director Sarah Ioannides as Music Director Laureate, an honorary title recognizing her extraordinary 12-year tenure as Conductor and Music Director of the orchestra.
Known for her visionary leadership and artistic excellence, Sarah played a pivotal role in shaping Symphony Tacoma into the dynamic and innovative orchestra it is today. Throughout her tenure, Sarah’s dedication to artistic excellence, expanding and diversifying the repertoire, commissioning and collaborating with the community, and bringing internationally acclaimed artists to the Symphony stage led to transformative musical experiences for audiences in the Pacific Northwest.
Under her baton, Symphony Tacoma garnered local and national acclaim with awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the League of American Orchestras, and the Women’s Philharmonic Advocacy. Plus, recognition from Pierce County and the City of Tacoma with a “Sarah Ioannides” named day.
“Symphony Tacoma will forever bear the imprint of its outstanding Maestra, Sarah Ioannides,” said Kit Evans, President of the Symphony Tacoma Board of Directors. “She brought us a host of newly discovered composers, world premieres, commissioned works, and astonishingly talented guest artists, from Evelyn Glennie to J’Nai Bridges. Sarah’s passion for inclusion created connections and collaborations that brought to life the meaning of our mission, ‘Building Community through Music.’ Our musicians have had the good fortune of working under her inspiration and direction, and our community has shared in the magic of the results. Sarah has been named Music Director Laureate as a way of honoring this legendary era and recognizing the ongoing nature of our relationship. We will continue to welcome her advice, suggestions, and perspective for years to come.”
The Music Director Laureate title is among the highest honors Symphony Tacoma can bestow, recognizing an individual’s lasting contribution to the orchestra’s artistic legacy. Music Director Sarah Ioannides commented, “I am deeply grateful to receive this distinguished title. My relationship with Symphony Tacoma has been profoundly meaningful, and I look forward to continuing to serve and support this extraordinary organization for years to come.”
The title of Music Director Laureate is honorary and carries no formal conducting duties. Symphony Tacoma remains committed to presenting the captivating, high-quality performances that have become a hallmark of Ioannides’ leadership as we look ahead to ournext chapter.