The Philadelphia Orchestra and Music and Artistic Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin have announced the appointment of Sara Aldana as the Orchestra’s new assistant conductor, effective Sept. 1, 2026, through the 2026–27 season.

Originally from Colombia and student of Philadelphia Orchestra Principal Guest Conductor Marin Alsop, Aldana will provide assistance to Nézet-Séguin and other guest conductors throughout the season.

Additionally, she will lead select Family Concerts and actively participate in residency programs, Orchestra tours, and a variety of educational activities. She will make her Philadelphia Orchestra debut in January 2027.

In a statement, Nézet-Séguin said, “Sara Aldana brings to the podium a unique combination of musical intelligence, authenticity, charisma, and a deep commitment to community—qualities that are essential to The Philadelphia Orchestra. I look forward to working alongside her as she continues to grow as an artist and know she will be a colleague for years to come.”

Aldana succeeds Naomi Woo, who has served as the Orchestra’s assistant conductor since 2024 and whose tenure ends in August. Aldana was a 2026 Taki Alsop Conducting Fellowship mentee and served as cover conductor of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra from 2023 to 2025 and has held positions as assistant conductor of the Reno Chamber Orchestra, associate conductor of the Michigan Youth Symphony Orchestra, and conducting fellow and assistant conductor to Alondra de la Parra at the Festival Paax GNP in Mexico.