Maestro Stephen Czarkowski is a distinguished conductor, cellist, and educator based in Washington, D.C., with an impressive and diverse portfolio in classical music and education. With nearly two decades of experience, Mr. Czarkowski has established himself as a powerhouse in conducting. As of 2026, he serves as the Music Director and Conductor of the Central Pennsylvania Symphony and Principal Guest Conductor of the Newark Symphony Orchestra.

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During the summer of 2025, Mr. Czarkowski was a featured guest conductor with SODELO (Southern Delaware Orchestra) in concerts in July with Soprano Dr. Makeda Hampton and then conducting at the National Philharmonic Summer Strings Institute. His leadership has impressed audiences at the National Symphony Orchestra under the guidance of Leonard Slatkin as part of the prestigious National Conducting Institute. His guest conducting engagements extend to notable ensembles, including the Honolulu Symphony, Virginia Symphony Orchestra, Symphony of the Potomac, and SODELO. During his eleven seasons with the Apollo Orchestra, Mr. Czarkowski collaborated with elite soloists, including members from the New York Philharmonic and the Washington National Opera. He delivered memorable performances at the Kennedy Center. Furthermore, for eight seasons, he significantly contributed as the Assistant Conductor of the York Symphony, collaborating with esteemed Music Director Lawrence Golan where he led educational concerts and appeared on subscription concerts.

 

As a cellist, Mr. Czarkowski excels as both a soloist and a member of the Tryos Ensemble, performing with celebrated trumpeter Neil Brown. He is a graduate of the Catholic University of America, where he earned a Graduate Artist Diploma in Orchestral Conducting, in addition to holding a Master's degree in Cello Performance and Conducting and a Bachelor's Degree in Cello from Mannes College, studying under the esteemed Carter Brey, Principal Cellist of the New York Philharmonic.

 

In his educational pursuits, Mr. Czarkowski leads the Frederick Regional Youth Orchestra, the Symphonette at Landon School, and orchestras at Landon School. He has previously worked with Norwood School and Georgetown Visitation School, where his ensembles earned Superior ratings in festivals. His youth ensembles have been recognized for performing at the Library of Congress, Hershey Park Music Showcase Festival, Maryland Theater, and Orlando Music Festival. He has also conducted masterclasses at prestigious institutions such as West Point Military Academy, The Catholic University of America, and schools across Howard and Loudoun Counties. Beyond his musical achievements, Czarkowski is an active member of the International Conductors' Guild Board of Directors and also serves on the Executive Council of the New School Alumni Council.