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Thomas Wilkins named principal conductor of Hollywood Bowl Orchestra

Thomas Wilkins has been named principal conductor of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra.
(Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
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Conductor Thomas Wilkins has been a familiar face to classical music fans in Los Angeles since at least 2008, when he was appointed principal guest conductor of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra.

On Thursday, Wilkins officially took on a new title with the orchestra -- principal conductor -- signaling a more permanent role in the institution. Wilkins made his Bowl debut in 2007 and has held a series of two-year appointments in his role as principal guest conductor.

Wilkins is scheduled to lead the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra in eight concerts during the 2014 summer season, including Saturday’s opening night performance. In addition to his position at the Bowl, he is the music director of the Omaha Symphony in Nebraska.

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The Los Angeles Philharmonic, which made the announcement on Thursday, said that Wilkins has led the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra at 50 concerts during his periods as principal guest conductor.

The Hollywood Bowl Orchestra was led for many years by conductor John Mauceri, who stepped down in 2006.

Twitter: @DavidNgLAT

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