The Elgin Symphony Orchestra (ESO) has selected Chad Goodman as its fifth Music Director.

He was chosen after an international search that lasted over two years and involved the evaluation of more than one hundred applicants. In his inaugural season, Goodman will conduct five classical concerts and several special events for the Symphony.

Prior to joining the ESO, Goodman served as a conducting member of the New World Symphony from 2019 until May 2023. Since 2018, he has been the assistant conductor of the San Francisco Symphony and has recently led performances with the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra, the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra, and the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra.

In addition to his extensive experience as a performer and conductor, Goodman also leads workshops that teach musicians valuable business skills to complement their musical knowledge. He authored a book “You Got a Degree in Music. Now What?,” which was published in 2022.

“We are delighted to welcome Chad. He brings a wealth of experience and talent, along with an infectious energy and enthusiasm that we look forward to sharing with the community,” said Marc Thayer, the Symphony’s Executive Director, in an official press statement.

“I am eager to build upon the incredible work that ESO has accomplished over the decades within the community, and I aim to invigorate and inspire concertgoers,” added Goodman.