The Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association and the Solti Foundation U.S. have announced that Robert Kahn has been named CSO Assistant Conductor for the 2026-27 Season.

In this role, Kahn will offer support as a cover conductor during select subscription weeks, lead youth concerts in March 2027, and conduct the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and young musicians in the January 2027 finals of the Crain-Maling Foundation CSO Young Artists Competition.

Kahn was one of three candidates selected by the Solti Foundation U.S. to audition with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and was awarded the position by a majority decision from CSO musicians.

In a statement Board Chair of the Solti Foundation U.S. Penny Van Horn said, “It is an honor for the Solti Foundation U.S. to collaborate with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association to sponsor the CSO Assistant Conductor position for the 2026-27 Season. I want to extend my sincere thanks to my colleagues at the Foundation who participated in this process. This position aligns with our mission to support emerging American conductors as they build their professional experience. I can’t imagine a greater opportunity for a young conductor than being connected to the artistry and exceptional level of music making at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and we’re delighted that Robert Kahn has been selected for this role.”

Kahn is a Solti Foundation U.S. Career Assistance Award recipient and works closely with the Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia. He completed the Conducting Fellowship at the Curtis Institute of Music in 2022 under Philadelphia Orchestra Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin.

He has also conducted the Olten Philharmonic in Izmir, Turkey and Opera Philadelphia’s workshop of the newly commissioned opera Complications in Sue.

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