Prieto is currently music director of the Huntsville (Alabama) Symphony and associate conductor of the Houston Symphony. He is also a violinist and a member of the Prieto Quartet with his father, cellist Carlos Prieto, and other relatives. Before becoming a professional musician, he studied business at Harvard.

"This is a wonderful and exciting development for the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra," said Hugh Long, president of the LPO board of trustees. "Maestro Prieto's appointment ensures a dynamic new chapter in our orchestra's life."