The Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) has announced that Klaus Mäkelä will be their next music director, making him the youngest in the orchestra’s history at just 31 years old. This appointment comes after a global search that began in early 2020 and will officially take effect in the 2027-28 concert season.
In addition to his role with the CSO, Mäkelä will also hold the title of chief conductor of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra in Amsterdam. His exclusive recording contract with Decca Classics means that new albums featuring the CSO will be released in the near future.
Mäkelä’s past experience and connection with the CSO musicians played a significant role in his selection as the new music director. His debut concerts in this role will feature cellist Sol Gabetta in place of pianist Yuja Wang, taking place at Symphony Center from Thursday to Saturday.
The announcement marks a new chapter for the CSO, as Mäkelä has plans to experiment with the orchestra’s sound and collaborate on future initiatives. Fans and musicians alike are eager to see what new and exciting changes Mäkelä will bring to the renowned orchestra.
