Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School Announces Eric Nathan as Composer in Residence

Composer Eric Nathan—One of the Most Respected Figures in American Music—Is Appointed Composer in Residence by the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra

Photo credit: Toby Oft

Providence, RI —

PROVIDENCE, RI (July 15, 2026) — The Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School (RI Phil) is pleased to announce the appointment of acclaimed composer Eric Nathan as Composer in Residence for a three-year term, beginning in September 2026.

Nathan’s residency comes at an exciting moment in the organization’s artistic trajectory, as the RI Phil enters its second season under the leadership of Music Director Ruth Reinhardt.

Nathan has been commissioned and performed by some of the nation’s most prominent ensembles and institutions, including the Boston Symphony Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Tanglewood Music Center, Aspen Music Festival, and Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, among many others. He is an Associate Professor of Music at Brown University.

During his residency with the RI Philharmonic, Nathan will compose three new works to be premiered by the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra. His Violin Concerto will launch the Orchestra’s 2026–27 season this September.

“I’m thrilled and honored to have Eric Nathan as our Composer in Residence and to premiere three major works by him,” said RI Phil’s Music Director, Ruth Reinhardt. “Eric is a fantastic composer of extraordinary depth and artistry, who also shares our passion for community engagement and education.”

RI Phil’s Executive Director, David Beauchesne, added, “Eric Nathan creates music that inspires both performers and audiences, and is a dedicated educator. We look forward to expanding awareness of his music in Rhode Island and beyond as well as inspiring young composers through this three-year residency”

In addition to composing, Nathan will collaborate with RI Phil’s artistic staff and musicians on programming and performance preparation. The Orchestra also anticipates presenting existing works from his repertoire, including Opening and Concerto for Orchestra. Beyond the concert stage, Nathan will actively engage with audiences, community partners, and students. He will work in close collaboration with the RI Philharmonic Music School, fostering educational opportunities for young musicians and composers.

Music School faculty and students will also explore his works with assistance from the composer. “The Rhode Island Philharmonic is an orchestra that I love deeply,” said Eric Nathan. “I have its sound in my mind’s ear from attending many concerts over the years. It’s an exciting moment to join the organization under Ruth Reinhardt’s inspiring leadership. I’m thrilled to collaborate with Ruth, David, and the Orchestra on new artistic projects, and honored by the opportunity to compose three major orchestral works as part of this residency. I look forward to engaging with the Music School community and with composers in Rhode Island and beyond, helping to nurture and champion the music of today.”

Further details about Eric Nathan can be found at www.ericnathanmusic.com