Panamanian-American conductor Kalena Bovell wields a distinctive voice as maestra, speaker, and poet. Having recently led the Chineke! Orchestra in her international debut, Bovell’s twin focus on musical excellence and community engagement led to Connecticut’s Channel 3 News praising her as “one of the brightest stars in the world of classical music."

 

As guest conductor, she has worked with the Hartford Opera Theater, New Britain Symphony, and a particularly memorable performance leading Hamilton star Leslie Odom Jr with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. Now with the MSO full time as its Assistant Conductor, Bovell also leads the Memphis Youth Symphony. Among other accolades, she was previously named a finalist for the Taki Alsop Conducting Fellowship, a recognition given to talented female leaders in the conducting field.