The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra (HK Phil) has announced the appointment of 24-year-old Finnish conductor Tarmo Peltokoski as its new music director, succeeding the 63-year-old Dutch maestro Jaap van Zweden, who led the orchestra for 12 years. Peltokoski’s four-year contract will commence in September 2026, when he will be 26, marking a significant moment for the orchestra with such a young talent at the helm.
Isaac Droscha, a senior lecturer at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, noted the advantage of Peltokoski’s youth, suggesting that he brings fresh energy and lacks the potential baggage of a long career in a challenging industry. This new direction is expected to invigorate what many consider Asia’s premier orchestra.
Peltokoski, a concert pianist by training, has been mentored by renowned Finnish conducting pedagogue Jorma Panula since age 14. Prior to this appointment, he was named music director of the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra in 2022 and will take up the same role at the Orchestre National du Capitole de Toulouse in 2025. Known for his passion for Wagner operas, Peltokoski completed his first Wagner Ring cycle in 2022.
Reflecting on his appointment, Peltokoski expressed excitement about building a versatile repertoire with HK Phil while continuing its tradition of performing Wagner. His decision to accept the role came after a highly praised debut with the orchestra and observing their performances during a European tour.
Peltokoski will conduct HK Phil in July 2024 in a programme featuring Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 and Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 2 with pianist Seong-Jin Cho. Plans are also in place for Peltokoski to lead the orchestra on international tours and to release recordings under the Deutsche Grammophon label.
The selection of Peltokoski followed a lengthy search process initiated in 2021, involving a vote by orchestra members and a search committee. Jing Wang, concertmaster of HK Phil, praised Peltokoski’s inspiring debut and his energetic approach to music.
The orchestra, which received substantial funding from the Hong Kong government and a sponsorship deal from Swire Group, requires Peltokoski to conduct for seven weeks in Hong Kong during his first full season in 2026. He will also conduct the opening concert of the 2024/25 season.
Music industry veteran Irene Au highlighted Peltokoski’s potential to bring new perspectives and fresh energy to HK Phil’s programming and community outreach, appealing especially to younger audiences. With his appointment, HK Phil anticipates a renewed sense of adventure and exploration in its musical journey.
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