Klaus Mäkelä Debuts as CSO Music Director Designate with Acclaimed Performances

The young conductor's first concerts in his new role showcase his talent and hint at an exciting future for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Klaus Mäkelä, the new music director designate of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO), made a notable debut with performances that captivated audiences and critics alike.
Mäkelä's appointment as the youngest music director in CSO's history has generated significant attention, marking a new era for the orchestra.
The performances featured the American premiere of Sauli Zinovjev’s 'Batteria' and a highly praised rendition of Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto No. 1, showcasing Mäkelä's diverse repertoire.
Cellist Sol Gabetta's last-minute inclusion and her superb performance alongside Mäkelä were highlights of the concerts.
The success of these concerts raises expectations for Mäkelä's tenure, which officially begins in 2027, and his ability to attract new audiences and sustain the orchestra’s elite level.