Xian Zhang says she never wanted to be a conductor. Instead, she says, “conducting chose me.” 

Zhang is in her first season as Seattle Symphony’s music director. On this episode of “Meet Me Here,” she explains how her conducting teacher threw her into deep waters as a 20-year-old conservatory student in Beijing. 

She also shares how she gets ready for conducting (“I prepare 300% mentally”), and advice for anyone who hasn’t experienced a symphony performance at Benaroya Hall. 

Your support helps create shows like Seattle Now, Soundside, and Meet Me Here! Become a KUOW member today.

Xian Zhang says she never wanted to be a conductor. Instead, she says, &ldquo;conducting chose me.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Zhang is in her first season as Seattle Symphony&rsquo;s music director. On this episode of &ldquo;Meet Me Here,&rdquo; she explains how her conducting teacher threw her into deep waters as a 20-year-old conservatory student in Beijing.&nbsp;
She also shares how she gets ready for conducting (&ldquo;I prepare 300% mentally&rdquo;), and advice for anyone who hasn&rsquo;t experienced a symphony performance at Benaroya Hall.&nbsp;
Your support helps create shows like Seattle Now, Soundside, and Meet Me Here!&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kuow.org/donate/meetnotes">Become a KUOW member today</a>.

Meet Me Here is your podcast guide to the most exciting arts and culture events in Seattle. In each episode, we’re fighting the freeze and meeting you around the region for art shows, concerts, author talks, geeky get-togethers, and more. There’s a lot to do in this region, so let’s make some plans and go experience it together.

Meet Me Here&nbsp;is your podcast guide to the most exciting arts and culture events in Seattle. In each episode, we&rsquo;re fighting the freeze and meeting you around the region for art shows, concerts, author talks, geeky get-togethers, and more. There&rsquo;s a lot to do in this region, so let&rsquo;s make some plans and go experience it together.

Meet Me Here is your podcast guide to the most exciting arts and culture events in Seattle. 

Meet Me Here

Seattle Symphony music director Xian Zhang explains her journey to conducting, and how she prepares for a night on the podium.