The Omaha Symphony has announced that Ankush Kumar Bahl will be retiring from his position as Music Director at the close of the 2024-25 season.

Bahl will serve as an Artistic Partner for the ensemble during the 2025-26 season.

“While my time in Omaha has been incredibly rewarding, both artistically and personally, I have decided to step down as Music Director of the Omaha Symphony at the end of this 24-25 season,” Bahl said in an official press release. “I will miss my friends in the orchestra, the administration, and the community immensely, but this decision will allow me to be more present with my family in Washington DC, as my children go through a crucial time in their schooling and development. However, I am very excited to continue our musical relationship and return to Omaha with the title of Artistic Partner for the 2025-26 season.”

“Joining us in the Omaha Symphony’s 100th year, Maestro Bahl has led us boldly into our second century! In addition to creating exciting and innovative concert experiences, recruiting 13 new musicians, establishing the popular post-concert After Hours series, introducing internationally renowned guest artists, and leading the orchestra in free outdoor concerts for tens of thousands of people in our community, Maestro Bahl has conducted five World Premiere compositions in Omaha – including Andy Akiho’s ‘Sculptures,’ with a live recording that went on to earn three GRAMMY nominations,” Jennifer Boomgaarden Daoud, President & CEO of the Omaha Symphony, added.