Boston Symphony Orchestra Names Three New Fellows

(Credit: Courtesy of Boston Symphony Orchestra)

The Boston Symphony Orchestra has introduced three new recipients of the Susan W. and Stephen D. Paine BSO Resident Fellowship for Early-Career Musicians.

The fellowship honours violinist Rachel Arcega Orth, cellist Maximiliano Oppeltz, and violist Yuri Hughes. Launched at the beginning of the 2022–2023 season, the fellowship aims to support string players from historically underrepresented backgrounds through paid positions with the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

The fellows will perform at Symphony Hall, Tanglewood, Carnegie Hall, and on national and international tours with both the BSO and Boston Pops. They will receive an annual salary, health benefits, and a housing stipend.

Orth, Oppeltz, and Hughes are set to begin their performances with the Boston Symphony Orchestra this fall, with their appointments lasting for one year and the possibility of renewal for a second year.

In a statement, Music Director Andris Nelsons expressed his pleasure in welcoming Rachel Arcega Orth, Max Oppeltz, and Yuri Hughes to the Boston Symphony Orchestra community. He highlighted that their regular performances at Symphony Hall and Tanglewood will provide them with valuable experience at one of the world’s premier orchestras, offering insights into the realities of a professional symphonic career and preparation for future auditions. Nelsons also noted that the orchestra will benefit greatly from their enthusiasm, musicality, and dedication to their craft during this important stage in their careers.

Orth, a Filipino-American, is an accomplished soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral performer. Her extensive performance experience includes engagements across the United States, Canada, France, Mexico, Peru, and Argentina. As a freelance musician, she has worked with the Tanglewood Music Center Orchestra, New World Symphony, Civic Orchestra of Chicago, and Spoleto Festival Orchestra.

Oppeltz began his musical journey at age four with El Sistema in Caracas, Venezuela. He currently plays with the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra.

Hughes is a New York City-based violist with a background including performances with the National Youth Orchestra of the U.S.A. and ensembles such as the Albany and Harrisburg symphonies.