Wenatchee Valley Symphony extends Caoile’s contract through 2035

WENATCHEE — Dr. Nikolas Caoile will remain at the helm of the Wenatchee Valley Symphony Orchestra through the 2034-35 season under a contract extension that will make him the longest-tenured conductor in the organization’s history.

Caoile, who was appointed music director in 2010, will reach 25 years leading the orchestra by the end of the newly extended agreement.

“It is an incredible honor to continue my journey with the Wenatchee Valley Symphony Orchestra through 2035,” Caoile said. “What began in 2010 has grown into one of the most rewarding chapters of my career.”

Caoile credited the orchestra’s musicians, board, staff and community with building an organization focused on both artistic excellence and its role as a cultural resource for North Central Washington.

“I’m deeply grateful for the trust and support reflected in this extension, and I’m excited to continue expanding our artistic vision, championing outstanding guest artists and new voices, and creating meaningful musical experiences that inspire audiences for years to come,” Caoile said.

Board of Trustees President Ron Lodge said Caoile brought stability to the orchestra after a period in which it had four conductors in 15 years.

“The Wenatchee Valley Symphony Orchestra in 2010 finally found a keeper in Nikolas Caoile,” Lodge said. “Nik has brought freshness, vibrancy, creativity, and now longevity to the conductor’s podium.”

Lodge also credited Caoile’s multi-genre programming and collaborations with guest artists and other organizations with making the symphony’s concerts less predictable.

“His multi-genre approach to music selection and collaborations with guest artists and other groups has made going to an orchestra concert a sometimes unexpected treat,” Lodge said. “Wenatchee never sounded better!”

Under Caoile’s leadership, the symphony has expanded its educational outreach and community engagement while strengthening its artistic profile throughout North Central Washington. Caoile also serves as director of orchestras at Central Washington University.

The Wenatchee Valley Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1947 and provides musical performances, outreach and education throughout North Central Washington.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media