Evansville Philharmonic extends Music Director Roger Kalia's contract through 2029
EVANSVILLE, Ind. (WEVV) — The Evansville Philharmonic Board of Directors has signed a new three-year contract extension with Music Director Roger Kalia, ensuring his leadership of the orchestra through May 2029.
Kalia, who became the sixth music director in the orchestra's history in June 2020, is currently finishing his sixth season. Since his appointment, Kalia has moved to Evansville and led the organization through a period of artistic expansion and increased community outreach.
"I’m pleased to announce the renewal of our Music Director Roger Kalia’s contract, reaffirming our shared commitment to artistic excellence," said Board President Nicholas Gartner. Gartner also noted Kalia's work with donors and the orchestra's endowment to ensure long-term financial stability.
Under Kalia's tenure, the Philharmonic has expanded its performances beyond the Victory Theatre to locations such as Bosse Field, the Evansville Wartime Museum, and St. Benedict Cathedral. He also launched the "New Traditions Series," which focuses on underrepresented composers, and established the "Inside the Music" podcast in partnership with WNIN.
Kalia’s programming has ranged from major classical works like Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 to popular events such as Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert and the Bollywood-inspired Symphony Masala.
"I am thrilled and honored to continue serving as Music Director of the Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra for another three years," Kalia said, noting his excitement to continue collaborating with the orchestra's musicians and engaging with the local community.
The Evansville Philharmonic, founded in 1934, remains the largest non-profit performing arts institution in the Tri-State area.