The future of music, made here.

Alum Named Principal Conductor of San Francisco Chamber Orchestra

October 17, 2023

Jory Fankuchen

NEC alum Jory Fankuchen ’04 MM has been named the new Principal Conductor of the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra for its 2023-2024 season.

“It is such an incredible joy and privilege to share the stage with the amazing musicians of the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra as this season’s Principal Conductor,” said Fankuchen.

While at NEC, Fankuchen studied violin performance with faculty member Lucy Chapman, a Grammy-nominated violinist who has played chamber music and solo concerts across the globe.

Fankuchen made his conducting debut with the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra in May 2023, having appeared with the group as violinist and violist over 15 years. A regular conductor of the Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra, he is also music director of the Civic Strings orchestra.

“It’s not only a group of world-class musicians, but they’re really amazing supportive colleagues, and so many of them are my close friends,” Fankuchen said.

One of Fankuchen’s colleagues includes a fellow NEC alum, Debra Fong ’86, ’88 MM, Principal Violinist for the SFCO.

recent news
NEC’s Spring 2026 Concert Season Promises Compelling and Imaginative Performances

December 10, 2025

NEC’s Spring 2026 Concert Season Promises Compelling and Imaginative Performances

Read More
Trio Eris Reaches Finals at Naumburg Competition

December 10, 2025

Trio Eris Reaches Finals at Naumburg Competition

Read More
New England Conservatory Introduces Tuition-Free 2026 Summer Chamber Music Young Artist Program

December 2, 2025

New England Conservatory Introduces Tuition-Free 2026 Summer Chamber Music Young Artist Program

Read More
  • NEC’s Spring 2026 Concert Season Promises Compelling and Imaginative Performances

    December 10, 2025

    NEC’s Spring 2026 Concert Season Promises Compelling and Imaginative Performances

  • Trio Eris Reaches Finals at Naumburg Competition

    December 10, 2025

    Trio Eris Reaches Finals at Naumburg Competition

  • New England Conservatory Introduces Tuition-Free 2026 Summer Chamber Music Young Artist Program

    December 2, 2025

    New England Conservatory Introduces Tuition-Free 2026 Summer Chamber Music Young Artist Program

  • NEC’s Institute for Concert Artists Celebrates New Class and Esteemed Advisory Council

    November 25, 2025

    NEC’s Institute for Concert Artists Celebrates New Class and Esteemed Advisory Council

  • NEC’s 2025 Festival Celebrates Curiosity and the “Compleat Musician”

    November 24, 2025

    NEC’s 2025 Festival Celebrates Curiosity and the “Compleat Musician”

  • Summer at NEC Offers Immersive, Enriching Programs in an Inspiring, Supportive Community  

    November 24, 2025

    Summer at NEC Offers Immersive, Enriching Programs in an Inspiring, Supportive Community