The Boston Symphony Orchestra has announced that Samy Rachid has been appointed as new assistant conductor for a two-year term.

Rachid’s term will be effective in October 2023. BSO Music Director Andris Nelsons named Rachid to succeed Anna Rakitina in the position following an audition process.

Rachid joins Earl Lee, appointed in 2021, as one of the BSO’s two assistant conductors and he is set to make his debut with the orchestra during the 2024 Tanglewood season.

In response to his appointment Rachid, “I am overjoyed to be joining the Boston Symphony Orchestra family,” said Rachid. “I discovered classical music with a recording of Charles Munch with the BSO, which inspired me to become a professional musician. Working with Maestro Nelsons and the wonderful musicians of the BSO is a great honor, and I look forward to becoming part of the Boston community.”

Rachid is a former cellist of the Arod Quartet and is a winner of the 2nd Prize in the Tokyo International Music Competition for Conducting. He has worked with France’s Orchestre Elektra and at the Verbier Festival. He is currently the assistant conductor of the Opéra National du Rhin.