Acclaimed conductor joins Philharmonia Orchestra

Philharmonia Orchestra has announced a long-term partnership with MARIN ALSOP as Principal Guest Conductor. 

Set to join in the 2023/24 season, Alsop will open the organisation’s Let Freedom Ring series. She will go on to develop three projects each season, including new repertoires, concert formats and modes of presentation. 

The appointment follows recent news that acclaimed conductor Sir JOHN ELIOT GARDINER will return to Philharmonia as Principal Guest Conductor Emeritus. 

Alsop is currently Chief Conductor of the ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, and Chief Conductor and Curator of Chicago’s Ravinia Festival. She regularly guest conducts major international orchestras, such as the Cleveland Orchestra and Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra.

In 2021, Alsop assumed the title of Music Director Laureate and OrchKids Founder of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, following a 14-year tenure as Music Director.

Philharmonia said she is “widely acknowledged as one of the most important musical figures of her generation,” particularly for her approach to programming and audience development.

President of Philharmonia KIRA DOHERTY added that Alsop is a “true trailblazer and visionary who challenges the accepted norms of the classical world through her innovative programming and education work. 

“Alsop holds a position in the industry that few have managed to replicate: an esteemed and highly respected custodian of musical tradition who simultaneously works to reimagine its future and ensure its continued relevance.” 

Alsop calls joining the Orchestra a “fantastic opportunity”. 

“I am so looking forward to working more closely with this innovative, forward-thinking orchestra to create programmes and projects that draw from its long history of exceptional music making and continue to embrace the new and the bold.”