Oregon Public Broadcasting

The Eugene Symphony has chosen Danail Rachev to become its seventh music director. KLCC’s Rachael McDonald reports.

The 38-year old native of Bulgaria is currently assistant director of the Philadelphia Orchestra. He was one of three finalists from a field of more than 300 applicants.

The search process included three orchestra rehearsals and a performance with each candidate.  The head of the search committee Roger Saydack says Rachev displays extraordinary musicianship and an ability to bring music to life.

Saydack says symphony musicians liked working with Rachev.

Roger Saydack: "After the second rehearsal, several of them walked off the stage and came up to me in the audience and said 'close the airport, get the contract out, sign this guy up before he leaves town.' He’s the one we want, this is really special."

The search began more than a year ago when current music director Giancarlo Guerrero announced he was leaving to become music director of The Nashville Symphony.

Eugene has sent several conductors on to leading orchestras including Marin Alsop who conducts the Baltimore Symphony and does commentary for NPR.