Stephanie Childress
The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and music director Stéphane Denève have appointed 21-year-old Franco-British conductor Stephanie Childress as assistant conductor.
Childress, a violinist and conductor, will assist Denève, conduct some concerts and perform as soloist with the orchestra later this winter. She will also serve as Music Director for the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra. Her initial contract will run through the SLSO’s 2021-22 season.
“In my entire life, I have never been so excited by the discovery of a new talent,” Denève said in a statement. “Stephanie Childress is truly special and has a tremendously bright future. She impressed all of us deeply during her audition with the orchestra.”
Childress earned second prize in the fall at the inaugural conducting competition, La Maestra, in Paris.
