This column by longtime Charlotte arts critic Lawrence Toppman was published by The Charlotte Ledger on September 8, 2026. You can find out more about The Charlotte Ledger’s commitment to smart local news and information and sign up for our newsletter for free here.
Ledger subscribers can opt into or out of different newsletters, including Toppman on the Arts, on their subscriber preferences page.
Kwamé Ryan extends his contract with Charlotte Symphony Orchestra through its 100th anniversary season; why it’s a big deal
Charlotte Symphony music director Kwamé Ryan, who has extended his contract with the orchestra through the 2031-32 season. (Photo courtesy of Charlotte Symphony Orchestra)
by Lawrence Toppman
The bride was 91, a Charlottean still catching up with the first quarter of the 21st century. The groom was 53, a cosmopolitan globetrotter with a home in Freiburg, Germany. After just two dates and a lot of prenuptial discussion, they sealed their bond shortly before Christmas 2023.
And the marriage has been so happy that the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra and music director Kwamé Ryan just renewed their vows before the third year of his four-year contract. He has re-enlisted for four years, which will keep him here through the centenary season in 2031-32.
If you follow the city’s oldest professional arts organization, you know why that’s big news. If not, I’ll explain.
Ryan, who’ll lead the Classical Series season-opener Oct. 9-10, has re-energized the podium, from his appearance — often a dark suit and open-necked shirt, rather than traditional tails — to his performances, which crackle with energy.
He’s fun to watch: quick, sharp gestures, intense focus, beaming smile when things go right. And he’s fun to listen to: Whether or not I agree with every musical decision, they’re well thought-out, and I have yet to hear musicians play sloppily or disinterestedly for him.
Yet what makes him charismatic and valuable goes beyond stick-waving technique.
Subscribe to The Charlotte Ledger's paid version to read the rest.
Become a paying member of The Charlotte Ledger to gain access to this post and other subscriber-only articles. (Paying Ledger members: Log in under "sign in" at the top of this page — no password required)
Upgrade