Philadelphia names new principal
OrchestrasThe Philadelphia Orchestra has promoted Joseph Conyers to principal double-bass, after 13 years as assistant principal.
Joseph”s from Savannah, Georgia, was was formerly a section player in the Atlanta Symphony.
He also teaches at Juilliard and travels widely as a chamber musician (see Wigmore Hall group photo below).
Bravo, Joe! Such an excellent musician!
Thanks for the comment concerning my (Twin) son!
Best man for the job. A fantastic musician and a wonderful person.
A great bass player!! Bravo!!
Congrats! When was the audition? I’m sure competition for a job of that caliber was stiff and talent came from top orchestras for a job that comes around once in a lifetime.
Promoted? Promotions are not a standard practice in US full-time orchestras since there is not a built mechanism for it in CBA’s. Did he win an international audition for the position? If so, he was awarded the position based on his abilities above others.
He was chosen from behind the screen in a competitive audition. He beat out principals and other top players. This is the job everyone wanted. A nd his own colleagues chose his playing from behind the screen. What an amazing talent he is!
Of course he auditioned for the job. An elite ensemble like the NY Phil isn’t going to ‘give’ anyone a principal position.
That’s also not entirely true, for example the Met appointed its last two concertmasters without an audition. It does happen, but Joe Conyers auditioned, won the audition, passed his trial and signed his contract!
They auditioned…
Bravo to Joseph Conyers!
Superb player, both orchestral & chamber. AND, the awesomest shoes ever!