The Los Angeles Philharmonic has appointed Esa-Pekka Salonen as its inaugural Judith and Thomas L. Beckmen Creative Director. This newly established position will commence in the 2026-27 season, allowing Salonen to conduct and curate a series of six weeks of concerts with the orchestra. His responsibilities will also extend to multi-disciplinary projects, festivals, and innovative programming, marking a significant evolution in his career.
Salonen’s appointment comes on the heels of his recent departure from the San Francisco Symphony, where he stepped down due to a divergence in vision with the institution’s leadership. “I have decided not to continue as Music Director of the San Francisco Symphony because I do not share the same goals for the future of the institution as the Board of Governors does,” Salonen stated at the time of his resignation. His new role in Los Angeles offers a fresh perspective, as he noted, “I don’t have to be part of the daily grind and carry the responsibilities of music director, but still, it’s more than being a guest conductor. It’s an opportunity to work on a different time perspective.”
The Los Angeles Philharmonic is currently navigating a transitional phase, actively searching for a successor to Gustavo Dudamel, who is set to assume the Music Director position at the New York Philharmonic. Salonen’s leadership is anticipated to bring a new creative direction to the organization during this pivotal time.
In addition to his role with the LA Phil, Salonen will engage in a collaborative partnership with the Philharmonie de Paris. This collaboration aims to create enhanced opportunities for both audiences and artists, broadening the reach of the Philharmonic’s initiatives worldwide.
The Los Angeles Philharmonic’s decision to bring Salonen on board reflects a commitment to innovative programming and artistic exploration, reinforcing its status as a leading institution in the global music scene. As the organization embarks on this new chapter, the anticipation surrounding Salonen’s contributions is palpable, promising a vibrant future for the LA Phil.
