Statement from the RI Philharmonic about Conductor Bramwell Tovey

Rhode Island Philharmonic’s Artistic Advisor and Conductor Bramwell Tovey has been diagnosed with cancer. The condition was caught early, and his doctors expect him to make a complete recovery. Tovey is taking the summer off from conducting to focus on his treatment. He is expected to return to the podium in the fall and will lead the Philharmonic Orchestra to open its 75th Season at The VETS on September 28.

“Bramwell is in good spirits. We’ve had a wonderful time working together to plan next season and are now working on the 2020-2021 season and beyond. We are excited to embark on a new era for the Philharmonic together.”

Tovey led a phenomenal all-Tchaikovsky gala with the Philharmonic Orchestra in March. He returned in April to visit schools and work with students in Pawtucket. He spent a week in Rhode Island in May to attend the organization’s Link Up education concerts, work with staff, conduct a masterclass at the Music School and attend a variety of events.



The Orchestra’s 75th Season launches in September. Tovey is scheduled to conduct 12 classical concerts in Providence, including the Orchestra & Music School’s Annual Gala, on June 13, 2020, which features violinist Pinchas Zukerman and cellist Amanda Forsyth. Details on the season, and more information about Tovey can be found at riphil.org.

“Bramwell is entirely dedicated to realizing the artistic vision for this organization that we have all shaped together. He has already raised our aspirations for what we can do for this community through world class concerts and music education. The entire Board, staff, Orchestra, faculty, and indeed all of Rhode Island wishes Bramwell a speedy recovery. We look forward to being with him in September to enjoy the beginning of what will be a spectacular season as he helps lead our Orchestra, as well as our education programs to new heights.”