News
Philadelphia Sinfonia Announces Appointment of New Music Director
September 10, 2025
Philadelphia, PA — Philadelphia Sinfonia proudly announces the appointment of its new Music Director, Linus Ip, marking an exciting milestone in the orchestra’s commitment to artistic excellence, education, and community engagement. Linus will be succeeding Gary White, whose guidance has been invaluable in shaping the ensemble’s journey.
Linus Ip, renowned for his innovative programming, cultural collaborations, and empowering young musicians, brings dynamic vision and experience to Philadelphia Sinfonia. He recently served as Cover Conductor and Assistant Conductor of the National Symphony Orchestra Summer Music Institute at the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., where he worked closely with young artists and administrative staff to nurture a shared vision of excellence. This past season, Linus also held positions as Assistant Conductor of the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Orion Youth Symphony and Principal Conductor of the Old Bay Ensemble for New Music, championing living composers and fostering intercultural collaboration.
Over the past years, Linus has assisted leading conductors including Marin Alsop, José-Luis Novo, and James Ross, and has conducted esteemed orchestras such as the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, National Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Symphoniker Hamburg in Germany. His dedication to contemporary music, youth mentorship, and equitable access has distinguished his career as both a conductor and educator. Linus earned his master’s degree in orchestral conducting from the Peabody Institute at Johns Hopkins University, and his bachelor’s in music composition from the Mannes School of Music in New York.
“We are thrilled to announce Maestro Linus Ip as Music Director for Philadelphia Sinfonia Association,” says Dawn Evans, President, Board of Directors, Philadelphia Sinfonia Association. “His passion for the musical growth of young artists, his deep connection to the importance of music education, and his personal musical artistry aligns perfectly with Sinfonia’s mission. Linus comes to us after a summer of music at The Kennedy Center, experience with the Peabody and Annapolis Youth Orchestra, and a stellar education at the Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University. We could not be more excited to welcome Linus Ip to Sinfonia!”
Known for his engaging approach to mentorship and warm demeanor, Linus reflected on joining Philadelphia Sinfonia: “I am thrilled to begin this new chapter with Philadelphia Sinfonia as Music Director, where young musicians come together to explore great music, grow as artists and citizens of the world, and enrich audiences across the Philadelphia region.”
To learn more about Linus Ip’s background and vision, please visit his full biography on our website.
As Philadelphia Sinfonia prepares for its next concert season, anticipation grows for the artistic leadership and educational commitment Linus brings to the ensemble and the wider community.
About Philadelphia Sinfonia
Founded in 1997, Philadelphia Sinfonia is dedicated to providing high-level ensemble experience and artistic growth to young musicians throughout the greater Philadelphia region. The organization serves talented musicians ages 10 to 23 from diverse backgrounds, offering opportunities for comprehensive orchestral training, performance, and musical enrichment in a supportive environment. Guided by its mission to support the artistic growth and development of young musicians and to share performances of symphonic repertoire within the region, Philadelphia Sinfonia prepares students for a lifetime of musical engagement, whether professionally or as dedicated amateurs. The orchestra presents a range of concerts—including outreach performances—across the Delaware Valley each season, actively engaging with schools, families, and communities to cultivate musical understanding. Through fostering excellence, nurturing collaboration, and creating access to symphonic music, Philadelphia Sinfonia continues to strengthen the cultural fabric of greater Philadelphia. To learn more, please visit https://philadelphiasinfonia.org.
Media Contacts:
Robert Hodges
Managing Director
Philadelphia Sinfonia Association
robert@philadelphiasinfonia.com