A native of Oregon, Ethan Pernela joined the viola section of the San Diego Symphony Orchestra in spring of 2015. Mr. Pernela completed his Bachelor of Music, Master of Music and Graduate Diploma with honors at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, where he studied with James Dunham and...
Meet 2025-26 Conducting Fellow Na’Zir McFadden
American conductor Na'Zir McFadden is known for connecting audiences through dynamic, expressive performances that honor tradition while embracing fresh perspectives. Celebrated for his “great conducting technique and energetic podium presence” (Th...
Meet Lea Slusher, Executive Director of The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park
Lea Slusher was appointed Executive Director of The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park in January 2026, expanding her leadership role at the San Diego Symphony Orchestra Association at a moment of continued artistic growth and increasing n...
Meet 2025-26 Conducting Fellow Tristan Rais-Sherman
Tristan Rais-Sherman, a three-time recipient of the Solti Foundation U. S. Career Assistance Award, recently completed his tenure as assistant conductor of the Philadelphia Orchestra, where he led performances at the Kimmel Center and Mann Center,...
