#JonathonHeyward #MusicDirector #BlackExcellence #OrchKids #ClassicalMusic #ConverseConductor
Let’s talk about Jonathon Heyward, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s new musical director! 🎶 Did you know he started playing the cello at age 10 purely by chance? Yep, that’s right! It all began when there were too many students at his performing arts school in Charleston, South Carolina, who wanted to play violin. The line for violin was out the door, and no one was in the cello line. Jonathan, in his impatience, chose the cello and the rest is history! He now holds the prestigious position of being the first Black music director in the BSO’s 107-year existence at the tender age of 31. 🎉 This is a significant milestone for a city that is more than 60% Black.
Jonathan’s passion for orchestral music started early, enhanced by the sense of unity and community it brings. Playing the cello in the fifth grade instantly made him feel a part of something bigger. He was creating something greater than just himself, a characteristic that he still loves about classical music. 🎻
Another serendipitous moment in his life was when he was chosen to conduct in the eighth grade. Imagine that! A substitute teacher selected his name out of a hat to lead the orchestra class. Although he didn’t initially like standing up in front of his peers, Jonathan fell in love with the concept of the score. 🎼
He further embraced the concept of unity within an orchestra circle during his three-concert tour weekend in September, which marked the beginning of his five-year engagement as the BSO’s music director. He was delighted to see how many people opted to wear Converse instead of high heels! This showcases his unique charm and style, and is a nod to his passion for bridging gaps and connecting with the community. 😎
Did you know that Jonathan is lovingly referred to as the “Converse Conductor”? He earned this moniker after wearing his classic red Chuck Taylors onstage when he forgot his formal dress shoes for a concert in Manchester, England. He now owns about 15 pairs of Converse. Who would’ve thought that a supply mishap would lead to such a fun and quirky trademark? 👟
Not only is Jonathan making history, but he is also invested in the community. During his concerts, he shared the stage with the Dance Theatre of Harlem and Baltimore’s OrchKids program. This program aims to expand access to classical music for students in Baltimore city schools, and Jonathan fully supports it. Programs like OrchKids remind Jonathan of the opportunities he had as a young performer and the amazing supporters and educators who believed in him. Passing on the joy of music to the next generation is a top priority for Jonathan. After all, as he says, “The sky is the limit”!
Jonathan’s road to becoming a music director is truly an inspiring journey that has been marked by these serendipitous moments. They were the stepping stones that led him to where he is today. Cheers to Jonathan’s unique story and his commitment to making classical music more inclusive and vibrant for everyone! 🎉🎼🌟