Travelling the world, leading ensembles small and large, and embracing music of every stripe, these five young conductors represent a new generation in classical music. They're some of the most visible leaders in the classical world today, and their international prominence is helping secure the future of classical music in many different ways.
This week, we'll hear five enormous pieces to celebrate the colossal talent and potential of these titans.
Monday
Carl Nielsen: Symphony No. 2 "The Four Temperaments"
New York Philharmonic; Alan Gilbert, conductor
As the child of two New York Philharmonic musicians, Alan Gilbert grew up hanging around the orchestra. Now, he's leading that ensemble, and they're making sure that the kids of New York have nearly as much exposure to music as he did, performing concerts for children as young as 3. At the same time, Gilbert remains strongly committed to challenging and engaging concertgoers of all ages through a robust adult education series and vibrant new music commissioning program.
Tuesday
Felix Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 2 "Song of Praise"
Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra and Chorus; Pablo Heras-Casado, conductor
Recently honored as Musical America's Conductor of the Year, Spanish conductor Pablo Heras-Casado works with a number of ensembles around the world, ranging from baroque orchestras to large opera companies. He's known for his energy and enthusiasm, and his performances garner glittering reviews for their technical ability and fresh interpretations of repertoire from nearly every era of classical music.
Wednesday
Igor Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring
Philadelphia Orchestra; Yannick Nézet-Séguin, conductor
Born in Montreal, Yannick Nézet-Séguin grew up idolizing Charles Dutoit, and decided he would be a conductor long before the rest of us learned "Chopsticks". He was recently appointed Music Director of the Philadelphia Orchestra, succeeding his idol, and holds several conducting posts at orchestras in Canada and Europe, but also travels frequently to lead prestigious ensembles like the Metropolitan Opera and the Berlin Philharmonic.
Thursday
Camille Saint-Saens: Symphony No. 3 "Organ"
Seattle Symphony; Ludovic Morlot, conductor
The Seattle Symphony has a history of appointing younger conductors as Music Director — Gerard Schwarz was hired when he was in his mid-30s, as was his predecessor Rainer Miedel — and a history for retaining those conductors for decades. Morlot's leadership is bringing the Symphony much-deserved attention through innovative programming, an extensive community outreach effort in Seattle and a series of acclaimed recordings.
Friday
Gustav Mahler: Symphony No. 9
Los Angeles Philharmonic; Gustavo Dudamel, conductor
What would a week featuring young conductors be without Gustavo Dudamel? He continues to dazzle audiences with his audacious and powerful performances, whether it's with his full-time bands in Los Angeles and Caracas, or touring Europe and Asia with the Vienna Philharmonic, or guest-conducting some of the world's most respected orchestras.
Love the music?
Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.
Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.
YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.
