Paavo Järvi Appointed Chief Conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra

The London Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) has announced that Paavo Järvi will succeed Edward Gardner as chief conductor and artistic adviser starting in the 2028-29 season. Järvi, 63, hails from a prominent musical family in Estonia and has established a significant international presence in the classical music scene. His appointment comes as Gardner, who has served as principal conductor since 2021, prepares to conclude his tenure.

Paavo Järvi named London Philharmonic Orchestra’s next Chief Conductor and Artistic AdvisorThe GuardianPaavo Järvi named London Philharmonic Orchestra chief conductor

Paavo Järvi is part of a renowned conducting lineage, with his father Neeme Järvi and brother Kristjan Järvi also being notable conductors. He has held leadership roles with several prestigious orchestras, including the Malmö Symphony, Cincinnati Symphony, Frankfurt Radio Symphony, and the Orchestre de Paris. Currently, he serves as the chief conductor of the Tonhalle-Orchester in Zurich and has been the artistic director of the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen for over two decades. Järvi founded the Pärnu Music Festival and its resident Estonian Festival Orchestra in 2011.

The GuardianPaavo Järvi named London Philharmonic Orchestra’s next Chief Conductor and Artistic AdvisorPaavo Järvi named London Philharmonic Orchestra chief conductor

In his new role, Järvi aims to enhance the LPO's engagement with contemporary music, particularly from Estonia and the UK. He has expressed a commitment to commissioning new works from Estonian composers and integrating British music into the orchestra's programming. Järvi emphasized the importance of making classical music more accessible, stating, “But people generally don’t grow up listening to classical music; our job is to find ways to bring it closer to the surface.”

The Guardian

Edward Gardner, who will remain with the LPO until the end of his contract, has praised the orchestra's versatility and ability to perform a wide range of repertoire. He noted, “I’ve never met an orchestra who can assimilate such a variety of styles,” highlighting the LPO's capacity to transition seamlessly between different musical genres. Gardner is currently involved in several projects, including a semi-staged production of Alban Berg's *Wozzeck* and a Ring Cycle with the Norwegian National Opera.

The Guardian

Founded in 1932 by Sir Thomas Beecham, the LPO has grown to become one of the leading orchestras in the UK, known for its high performance standards. It has served as the resident orchestra for the Glyndebourne Festival since 1964 and has been based at London’s Southbank Centre since 1993. Järvi's leadership will coincide with the orchestra's centenary celebrations in 2032.

Paavo Järvi named London Philharmonic Orchestra chief conductor

As Järvi prepares to take the helm, he will engage with the orchestra through upcoming concerts in London, Budapest, and Athens. His focus on innovative programming and community engagement is expected to shape the LPO's future direction as it approaches its milestone anniversary.

Paavo Järvi named London Philharmonic Orchestra chief conductor

• “When I first conducted the LPO it was immediately obvious that we matched well, that there was energy.” — Paavo Järvi, Chief Conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra

The Guardian

• “I felt there was a bottleneck of projects coming up and it just wouldn’t be fair for an orchestra of the stature and brilliance of the LPO not to have my full commitment.” — Edward Gardner, outgoing Principal Conductor

The Guardian

This transition marks a significant moment for the London Philharmonic Orchestra as it prepares for a new chapter under Järvi's leadership, promising to uphold its legacy while exploring new musical horizons.

Paavo Järvi named London Philharmonic Orchestra chief conductor