Lexington Philharmonic renews contract with music director through 2031
After nearly four years of leading Lexington’s local orchestra, Mélisse Brunet will be staying in the role for another five years.
The Lexington Philharmonic announced its decision to renew Brunet’s contract as the organization’s music director and conductor through 2031.
She has overseen several hallmark shows for the Philharmonic during her tenure, including the 250Lex concert celebrating Lexington’s 250th birthday in 2025, collaborations with hometown musicians like cellist Ben Sollee and performances of orchestral staples from Mahler and Beethoven. She also made her Carnegie Hall debut in October 2025, conducting the American Composers Orchestra.
Brunet assumed the music director role in December 2022, making local history as the first woman to lead the nonprofit orchestra.
“Mélisse’s renewal is an exciting affirmation of the momentum we’ve built together over the past four seasons,” the Philharmonic’s executive director Brooke Raby said in a Wednesday press release. “Under her leadership, we’ve seen real growth in our audiences and a deeper connection with our community, while the organization itself has grown more unified and confident.”
“I am so overjoyed to renew my contract with LexPhil,” Brunet said, “and to keep bringing fantastic musical and human adventures to our community, together with the musicians, staff, and board members.”
The Lexington Philharmonic’s 65th season will start with the free annual Patriotic Concert on July 3rd and will run through April of 2027. The season will include a pay-what-you-can kick-off concert for the season, an October performance of tracks from famous film scores and a performance of Mahler’s Resurrection.
Tickets can be purchased at the Philharmonic’s website and go on sale July 1.
