In a major coup, the New York Philharmonic has appointed Gustavo Dudamel as its new Music and Artistic Director. Dudamel will leave the Los Angeles Philharmonic, where he has been Music Director for 17 years, to take up the position.

Succeeding Dutch conductor Jaap van Zweden, Dudamel’s new role has previously been held by Mahler, Toscanini and Bernstein.

Gustavo Dudamel

Gustavo Dudamel conducts the Young Orchestra Los Angeles (YOLA) during an LA Philharmonic concert at the Hollywood Bowl, Los Angeles in 2018. Photo: Alamy Stock Photo.

The charismatic, 42-year-old Venezuelan maestro will join the New York Phil for five seasons, beginning in 2026. He will serve as Music Director Designate for 2025–26 during his last season with the LA Phil.

Meanwhile, the Berlin Philharmonic has announced the appointment of Latvian violinist Vineta Sareika-Völkner as its new Concertmaster. She takes on the role after joining the prestigious orchestra in April 2022, and is the first woman to hold the position in the orchestra’s 141-year history.

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