The Shepherd School of Music at Rice University has announced that conductor Miguel Harth-Bedoya will join the faculty as distinguished resident director of orchestras and professor of conducting.

The conductor will begin his tenure as designate in the 2024-25 school year and will assume full responsibilities overseeing the Shepherd School’s preeminent orchestral programs in the 2025-26 season.

Harth-Bedoya will succeed Larry Rachleff, who led the Shepherd School orchestras for more than 30 years before his passing in 2022.

In a statement, Dean Matthew Loden said, “Under Miguel’s direction, we anticipate an era of transformative orchestral experiences for our students. He is the ideal leader, bringing a fresh, collaborative artistic sensibility to the school for students and faculty alike.”

Harth-Bedoya added, “I’m thrilled and honored to join the Shepherd School as distinguished resident director of orchestras. Throughout my career, I’ve championed the development of the next generation of musical talent. The chance to do that at such a renowned institution is truly exciting. Together, we’ll inspire and challenge each other to excel and create unique and transformative opportunities to prepare musicians for the 21st century.”

Over the years Harth-Bedoya has served as chief conductor of the Norwegian Radio Orchestra and music director of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, where he remains music director laureate. He has also led the Auckland Philharmonia, Eugene Symphony, Lima Philharmonic, and the New York Youth Symphony.