The Los Angeles Philharmonic has appointed Esa-Pekka Salonen as its inaugural Judith and Thomas L. Beckmen Creative Director, a new role designed to enhance the orchestra’s artistic vision. Salonen will officially take on this position in the 2026-27 season, where he will conduct and curate a series of concerts over six weeks with the LA Phil. His efforts will also encompass multi-disciplinary projects, festivals, and innovative programming.
In addition to his new role, the LA Phil announced a collaborative partnership with the Philharmonie de Paris. This alliance aims to expand opportunities for both artists and audiences on a global scale. Salonen expressed his enthusiasm for this shift, stating, “It makes a lot of sense from my point of view. 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,” as reported by the Los Angeles Times.
Salonen’s transition comes on the heels of his recent departure from the San Francisco Symphony. He stepped down after expressing a misalignment with the board regarding the future direction of the organization. “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 that time.
This appointment marks a significant moment for the Los Angeles Philharmonic, which is currently in the process of finding a successor for Gustavo Dudamel. Dudamel is set to become the Music Director of the New York Philharmonic, leaving a notable gap for the LA Phil to fill. Salonen’s new creative position may play a crucial role in shaping the orchestra’s future direction and artistic identity during this transitional phase.
As the LA Phil continues to innovate and adapt in a rapidly changing cultural landscape, Salonen’s leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective. His experience and vision could help redefine the audience’s experience and broaden the orchestra’s reach, both locally and internationally.