Klaus Mäkelä Named Youngest Music Director of Chicago Symphony Orchestra
In a historic announcement, Klaus Mäkelä has been appointed as the new music director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, succeeding the legendary Riccardo Muti. At just 28 years old, Mäkelä will become the youngest head of the orchestra since its inception in 1891.
Mäkelä, a Finnish conductor, has quickly risen to prominence in the music world, holding prestigious positions with orchestras in Sweden, Norway, and France. He is set to take over the reins of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra in the Netherlands after his tenure with the CSO.
The young maestro expressed his excitement about the opportunity, stating, “It’s just something which I don’t think about. I was just reminded when I started in Amsterdam that I’m actually not even young.” Mäkelä’s talent and passion for music have already made a strong impression on the CSO musicians and leadership.
CSO president Jeff Alexander praised Mäkelä’s connection with the orchestra, noting, “When you see Klaus conduct, there’s such a connection between him and the orchestra, and you can just feel it.” Mäkelä’s unique approach to conducting and his ability to push boundaries in classical music have garnered widespread acclaim.
As Mäkelä prepares to take on this new role, he is already planning innovative programs to challenge both himself and the orchestra. His appointment marks a new chapter in the storied history of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, promising exciting performances and groundbreaking musical experiences for audiences in the years to come.