Mei-Ann Chen ’95, ’98 MM Named to Director of Orchestral Activities at Manhattan School of Music
NEC proudly congratulates alumna Mei-Ann Chen ’95, ’98 MM on her appointment as Director of Orchestral Activities and Chair of the Conducting Program at the Manhattan School of Music, beginning in the 2026–27 academic year.
A celebrated Taiwanese American conductor, Chen is recognized internationally for her dynamic artistry, versatility, and leadership on the podium. In her new role at Manhattan School of Music, she will provide strategic and artistic leadership for the School’s orchestra program, teach and mentor conducting students, and regularly conduct the MSM Symphony Orchestra as part of the School’s annual performance season.
Chen has built a distinguished international career as Music Director of the Chicago Sinfonietta since 2011 and currently also serves as Chief Conductor of Austria’s Recreation – Grosses Orchester Graz at Styriarte, Artistic Advisor of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, Artistic Partner of Houston’s ROCO, and Artistic Partner with Northwest Sinfonietta. She has appeared with more than 160 orchestras across the Americas, Europe, the United Kingdom, Scandinavia, and Taiwan.
A passionate advocate for music education, Chen has mentored emerging conductors through Chicago Sinfonietta’s Freeman Conducting Fellowship, served as a mentor for the Taki Alsop Fellowship, and worked with students at leading institutions and training programs around the world. Her longstanding connection to NEC includes returning to work with student musicians at her alma mater.
In March 2025, Chen was honored by NEC with the Marylou Speaker Churchill Award, named for her violin teacher. She studied violin at NEC before becoming the first student in Conservatory history to earn double master’s degrees simultaneously in both violin and conducting.
Chen’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter in an already remarkable career and reflects the extraordinary impact of NEC alumni across the global musical landscape.
