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The Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra (TMSO) has announced the appointment of Finnish violinist and conductor Pekka Kuusisto as its incoming chief conductor, starting from April 2028 for an initial period of three years.
Prior to this role, Kuusisto will join the TMSO as artist in residence for two years from April 2026, contributing as both conductor and violinist.
’We are extremely pleased to announce Pekka Kuusisto as our next chief conductor from April 2028,’ commented Tetsuki Kunishio, director of artistic planning at the TMSO.
’He is an exceptional musician, brimming with creativity and able to captivate with his authentic, lively performances. I will never forget the joy and surprise I felt when he conducted TMSO for the first time in April 2024.’
Kuusisto commented on his appointment: ’I have been an admirer of the Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra from our first rehearsal together. It is a gift to now become a member of this great musical family.
’I feel a joyous responsibility for understanding the musical pulse of Tokyo, and how it resonates within Japanese cultural life. As a Finn, I believe we share certain ideals of shape, movement, and concentration, and I am looking forward to exploring them with my friends and colleagues in the Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra.’
Kuusisto currently hold numerous directorship roles, including artistic director of Norwegian Chamber Orchestra, principal guest conductor and artistic co-director of Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, and principal guest conductor of Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra.
AloJapan.com