“I'm really thrilled that she was just recently appointed," Alsop told Fresh Air host Terry Gross. "But I think it almost highlights the fact that progress is very slow and sporadic. And there doesn't seem to be a real progression to the top in terms of this industry, which is something I hope we can see change in the next decade or so."
Ultimately though, Zhang feels that the issue is a supply problem — or, as she puts it, "a number problem." Once more girls and women are in the talent pool, she said, more of them will be given the opportunity to advance into high profile positions. To get there, Zhang added, it’s critical that young artists be "exposed to teachers who are able to help them at a very early stage.
"I think this orchestra is one of the forerunners in what we call D.E.I.: diversity, equality and inclusion," Zhang said. "I really feel proud that this is the philosophy behind this orchestra and this organization.” Also on the schedule for the 2022-23 season are prominent soloists, including pianists Yefim Bronfman and Daniil Trifonov and violinist Hilary Hahn . The orchestra'sThe orchestra’s film of pianistis one of Zhang's "most proud videos." Noting the organization’s proximity to New York City, Zhang says that the opportunity to perform with Trifonov and others in the lineup of impressive soloists to be featured this season, “all came as an advantage to where we are.