P.E.I. Symphony Orchestra names new music director

“I feel there is an extraordinary amount of commitment and passion in this orchestra, and I am honoured to receive the trust of the PEISO community to begin this new chapter with them.”

Jaelem Bhate

After an intensive search, the P.E.I. Symphony Orchestra (PEISO) has announced that Jaelem Bhate is its new music director.

Entering its 57th season, Bhate becomes PEISO’S ninth music director in the orchestra’s history.

“From our first meeting, I felt a special connection with the musicians, staff, administration and audiences of the PEISO,” said Bhate in a news release.

"I feel there is an extraordinary amount of commitment and passion in this orchestra, and I am honoured to receive the trust of the PEISO community to begin this new chapter with them. I am beyond excited to make music with these artists and to contribute to this organization and its patrons.”

Bhate was selected after a year-long search, which included a final audition round during the PEISO’S 2023-24 season.

As part of the audition process, PEISO season subscribers and a newly formed student committee, representing five Prince Edward Island high schools, had the unprecedented opportunity to contribute to the selection of the next music director.

“The search process for PEISO'S new music director has been extensive, and we had the fortunate situation of having many talented candidates apply,” said David Sharpe, PEISO board president.

“Ultimately, Jaelem Bhate rose to the top, with consistently glowing reviews from musicians, subscribers and the student committee alike, who have demonstrated their support of and excitement in this search process. Jaelem brings an energy and drive to engage and lead our symphony in its artistic endeavours and community initiatives. PEISO is really excited to have Jaelem Bhate in this leadership role.”