The Charleston Symphony is proud to announce the appointment of Zuill Bailey as its new Artist-in-Residence for the 2025-2026 season. One of the most sought-after cellists in the world, Bailey is a Grammy Award-winning artist with an extensive discography and appearances with leading orchestras and chamber ensembles worldwide.
The residency will feature Bailey in curated chamber music programs, orchestral masterworks performances, and community engagement initiatives throughout the season. Known for his signature artistry, technical brilliance, and audience connections, this new partnership further reinforces the Symphony’s commitment to enriching the cultural fabric of the Lowcountry.
“We are thrilled to welcome Zuill Bailey as our new Artist-in-Residence,” said Yuriy Bekker, CSO Artistic Director & Concertmaster. “Zuill is one of the top cellists of our generation, a celebrated musician and an incredibly engaging artist. I’m very much looking forward to collaborating with him on a variety of projects in both orchestral and chamber music settings. I know our audience will absolutely love getting to know him.”
Featured Performances
Chamber Music Series at Charleston Library Society
Bailey has helped curate a reimagined Chamber Music Series hosted at the intimate and historic Charleston Library Society. Highlights include:
- Chamber Music 1
Friday, October 3 at 11am & 7pm | Saturday, October 4 at 7pm
A vibrant program showcasing beautiful works by Mozart, Brahms, and Dohnányi.
- Chamber Music 3
Friday, April 17 at 11am & 7pm | Saturday, April 18 at 7pm
Stravinsky’s Woodwind Octet will be paired with the lush brilliance of Schubert’s String Octet.
Masterworks Series at the Charleston Gaillard Center
Bailey joins the Charleston Symphony on the grand stage of the Gaillard Center in a captivating orchestral program:
- Scheherazade
Friday, November 21 at 7:30pm | Saturday, November 22 at 7:30pm
Paired with Rimsky-Korsakov’s evocative Scheherazade, Bailey will perform as soloist in Camille Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto No. 1, showcasing his virtuosity and skilled musicianship.