Rei Hotoda

Conductor Rei Hotoda is redefining 21st-century orchestral leadership. She infuses each performance with bold vision and collaborative energy. Her programs—marked by compelling repertoire, deep community engagement, and advocacy for contemporary American voices—reflect both her creative curiosity and emotional vibrancy. Also, an accomplished pianist, Rei brings a unique perspective to her work on the podium.

Renowned for her artistic versatility, Rei has guest conducted many of today’s esteemed ensembles, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Utah Symphony Orchestra as well as the Las Vegas Philharmonic and the American Composers Orchestra in her Carnegie Hall debut. She currently serves as the Music Director of the Fresno Philharmonic, a position she will hold in tandem with her new appointment as Music Director of the Las Vegas Philharmonic. 

A distinguished pianist as well as conductor, Rei brings a soloist’s perspective to her leadership on the podium. Recent highlights include performing George Antheil’s A Jazz Symphony from the piano with the American Composers Orchestra and Jessie Montgomery’s Rounds with the Las Vegas Philharmonic.

Through her imaginative programming and cross-disciplinary collaborations, Rei has established herself as a driving force in shaping a more inclusive and relevant orchestral landscape. An ardent advocate for the music of our time, she purposefully programs works that reflect the vibrant diversity of today’s composers, including Anna Clyne, Wynton Marsalis, Juan Pablo Contreras, Viet Cuong, Damien Geter, Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate, Jessie Montgomery, and Dinuk Wijeratne.

A recognized leader in the orchestral field, she serves on the Board of Directors for the League of American Orchestras and regularly speaks on issues of equity, artistic innovation, and leadership.