In January 2014, the orchestra announced the appointment of Rafael Payare as its 13th chief conductor, effective with the 2014–2015 season. In October 2016, the orchestra announced the extension of Payare's contract through the 2018–2019 season, and also a change in his title from chief conductor to music director. In February 2018, the orchestra announced that Payare is to stand down as its music director at the close of the 2018–2019 season.
The orchestra selected Rafael Payare as its new leader in January 2014, starting with the 2014–2015 season. In October 2016, they agreed to keep Payare on until the 2018–2019 season and also changed his role from chief conductor to music director. However, by February 2018, it was decided that Payare would leave as music director at the end of the 2018–2019 season.