Meet the Maestro

Welcome to the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra

As the Charlotte Symphony begins its 32nd season, we welcome Toshimasa Francis Wada for his second season as music director and conductor. Known to his American friends as simply “Francis,” Maestro Wada hails from Leominster, Massachusetts by way of his native Japan, and brings with him an impressive 40-year career in both symphonic and orchestral conducting and music education. In his spare time, the maestro enjoys spending time with his 5 children and 9 grandchildren, riding his motorcycle, fishing, and playing golf. Maestro Wada promises that he is still committed to providing the highest quality concerts here in Charlotte County in both the classical and pops genres, with the emphasis on “building a better community through music.” His innovative style, knowledge of his art, and even his contagious sense of humor, are sure to serve as the building blocks of future concert programming. We are pleased and excited he has agreed to remain as our conductor and music director. Please extend to him your warmest of Florida welcomes as he brings new leadership and a new vision to our community.