The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (BSO) has announced the appointment of Jiannan Cheng as Assistant Conductor and Tatiana Pérez-Hernández as Conducting Fellow for the 2025–26 season.

Cheng takes over for Jonathon Taylor Rush, who previously served as Assistant and later Associate Conductor from 2020 to 2023. In her new role, Cheng will lead select family, education, and holiday performances, as well as serve as cover conductor for classical subscription programs and contribute to the BSO’s community and education initiatives.

“I am truly honored to join the BSO and to be part of this exciting season,” said Cheng, who is Music Director of Orchestra Concordia, per an official press release. “From my very first weeks, I have been inspired by the artistry, dedication, and warmth of our music director, musicians and staff. It means so much to me to be given this incredible opportunity, and I’m excited to bring more music to our audiences.”

Cheng will make her BSO debut on Nov. 19, 2025, conducting the free “Symphony in the City” concert at Johns Hopkins University.

Meanwhile, Pérez-Hernández joins as the BSO’s inaugural Conducting Fellow, a new program established under Music Director Jonathan Heyward’s leadership to mentor emerging conducting talent. In her role, Pérez-Hernández will serve as cover conductor for select concerts and lead educational and community initiatives

“I am thrilled to welcome Jiannan and Tatiana to the BSO family,” said Heyward. “There is real talent in Jiannan’s music making, and she brings a deep knowledge and curiosity to her work. I look forward to collaborating with both as they share their artistry, perspective, and voice with our orchestra and greater BSO community.”

Read Related Stories

• Quinn Kelsey, Sasha Cooke & Russell Thomas Lead Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s 2025-26 Season

• Angel Blue, Jamie Barton, Limmie Pulliam to Headline Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s ‘Aida’

• Christine Goerke, Nicholas Phan & Melody Moore Lead Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s 2023-24 Season