Rafael Payare Extends Tenure with the San Diego Symphony 

The San Diego Symphony is delighted to announce the extension of Rafael Payare’s tenure as Music and Artistic Director through the 2028-29 season, marking 10 years of his transformative leadership at the helm. Since his arrival in 2019, Payare’s vision and artistry have elevated the Symphony’s expressive range and strengthened its connection with audiences. 

This period has been a historic one for the San Diego Symphony, highlighted by the opening of two landmark venues—the acclaimed Rady Shell at Jacobs Park on the San Diego Bay and the beautifully restored Jacobs Music Center in downtown San Diego. 

"We are delighted that Rafael has extended his time with us,” says Symphony President and CEO Martha Gilmer. “Rafael’s vision for the orchestra and his inspiring musicianship have transformed our Orchestra, deepening both the artistic excellence our musicians regularly bring to the stage as well as our bond with the San Diego community. During his tenure we have opened two extraordinary venues, welcomed 26 new members to our orchestra, performed countless new works, and reached deeper into our community taking our musicians to many communities, civic centers, schools, and hospitals. As we look forward to the years ahead, we will take the sound of our orchestra even further. Expanding our reach in our region, nationally and internationally, and developing a deeper connection with audiences is our top priority. As Rafael has always said, ‘the sky’s the limit’ and we continue to set our sights high. We look forward to this next chapter of extraordinary collaboration and creativity." 

Payare shares his enthusiasm for continuing this creative partnership: 
 
“The artistic partnership I share with my wonderful San Diego Symphony continues to thrive, and I’m proud to be part of shaping the orchestra’s evolving sound. The extraordinary venues here in San Diego inspire us and allow us to explore and present music in new ways. Together, we’ll continue to deepen the orchestra’s artistry, achieve new heights, and keep expanding the repertoire. I am so very happy to share this remarkable journey with our audiences.” 

We are energized by all that lies ahead under Payare’s leadership—performances that inspire and unite us, collaborations that enrich our community, and a shared commitment to musical excellence that defines the San Diego Symphony’s future. 

Photo credit: Todd Rosenberg