Fawzi Haimor’s work as a conductor has taken him around the world. He conducted a special concert with the New Zealand Symphony to mark the fifth anniversary of the Christchurch mosque massacre; led Germany’s Württembergische Philharmonie Reutlingen and toured with them through Europe; and served as assistant conductor and resident conductor of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

But for Haimor, who has deep ties to the Bay Area, it will be special to connect with local audiences through his work as Marin Symphony’s new music director, the fourth in its 73-year history.

Haimor, who was born in Chicago in 1983, was raised in the Middle East and the San Francisco Bay Area. (Fun fact: The first concert he attended was Third Eye Blind at The Fillmore in San Francisco.) He would go on to earn bachelor’s degrees in both music and neurobiology and a master’s degree in conducting from the University of California at Davis, and a second master’s in instrumental conducting at Indiana University.

“Having spent most of my life in the Bay Area, the chance to collaborate with these exceptional musicians and serve a community I care so deeply about — our community — feels both personal and profound,” he said. “From the very first rehearsal, I was struck by the orchestra’s sense of purpose, artistic integrity and collective commitment to excellence.”

“I’ve always believed that an orchestra’s role extends beyond the stage — it’s about connection, belonging, and enriching lives through music,” he said. “To contribute to that spirit here in Marin is a true privilege, and I can’t wait to begin.”

His appointment is the culmination of a three-year search after former music director Alasdair Neale retired in 2022 after more than two decades at the helm.

Steven Machtinger, president of Marin Symphony’s board of directors and co-chair of its search committee, said Haimor’s “exceptional artistry, innovative programming ideas, passion for live orchestral music and deep commitment to community engagement align perfectly with our vision for the orchestra’s future.”

“We are confident that under his baton, the orchestra will reach new heights of artistic excellence and resonate with audiences old and new,” Machtinger said.Haimor’s inaugural season begins in October. The 2025-2026 season will include 21 performances over nine programs, showcasing symphonies by Brahms, Beethoven and Dvorák; soloists John Wilson, Ani Bukujian, Carey Bell and Oliver Herbert; and other works by contemporary composers.

Tod Brody, Marin Symphony’s executive director, said Haimor’s “humanity and collaborative spirit have shone so brightly in his interactions with musicians, staff and patrons, and his work with our orchestra was first-rate.”

“Musicians found him inspiring, intelligent and kind, and spoke of his communication skills and his comfort and confidence on the podium,” Brody said. “We’ve already begun our work together, and I’m very enthused about what he will bring to the people of Marin.”

Season subscriptions will be available beginning in early August, and single tickets go on sale Sept. 2 at marinsymphony.org.