The Stockton Symphony on Thursday evening will host a reception at the Haggin Museum in Stockton to introduce their new chief executive officer.
The Stockton Symphony is the third-oldest continuously performing orchestra in the state, according to its website.
The appointment of Scott Watkins, who came from Bowling Green, Kentucky, where he served as the executive director of Orchestra Kentucky, was announced Tuesday following a nationwide search.
“We are thrilled to welcome Scott Watkins to the Stockton Symphony family,” Elizabeth Kim, Stockton Symphony’s board president, said in a statement. “His passion for music, coupled with his transformative leadership style, aligns perfectly with our vision for the future.”
The new CEO started his orchestral journey at the Dallas Symphony and has held leadership positions at Symphony Arlington, South Arkansas Symphony, and other prominent orchestras.
According to the statement, Watkin’s is aiming to bring generations together, creating a vibrant space where families, friends, and music enthusiasts of all ages can enjoy the symphony.
Sarah Jones, marketing manager for the symphony, said they finished the 2022-23 season with their office team in place under the leadership of music director and conductor Peter Jaffe and developmental director Diane Vigil.
Earlier this year, it was announced that Philip West, the latest CEO of the symphony, had passed away.
“Under Scott’s guidance, we are confident that the Stockton Symphony will continue to thrive and inspire our community for generations to come,” Kim said.
Anyone wanting to RSVP for the event can contact Diane Vigil at stocktonsymphony.org.

