Paavo Järvi is to be the next chief conductor and music director of Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich. The Estonian begins his tenure in the 2019-20 season, taking over from Lionel Bringuier.
A recent stint of four concerts in December 2016 created a bond between Järvi and the orchestra, which led to his being offered the position. He first led them in 2009.
“On the most recent occasion I had the privilege of working with the orchestra, I felt a very strong chemistry with both the musicians and the management and was overwhelmed by their commitment,” said Järvi. “I look forward to strengthening those musical and personal relationships: with the orchestra, the management and, not least, the audience in Zurich, embarking on a new chapter of our musical lives together.”
Järvi has signed a five-year deal, which includes touring and recording considerations. He will spend three weeks with the orchestra during the 2018-19 season.
Commented Tonhalle Society Zurich chair Martin Vollenwyder: “In Paavo Järvi, the Tonhalle Society Zurich has succeeded in engaging one of the world’s best-known conductors. I am convinced that this will enable the orchestra to scale new heights.”
Järvi is currently artistic director of the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen, chief conductor of NHK Symphony Orchestra and former music director of Orchestre de Paris.
