Daniel Harding Named as Next Music Director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic

The Los Angeles Philharmonic has appointed Daniel Harding as its 12th music director. This announcement ends a period of speculation on the orchestra’s future leadership following Gustavo Dudamel’s move to the New York Philharmonic in August. Harding’s contract spans six years, during which he will conduct up to a dozen concerts each season, starting in fall 2027. This marks nearly 30 years since Harding first conducted the L.A. Phil at the 1997 Ojai Festival.

Harding has risen as a key figure in the orchestral world, known for his guest conductor roles and recent concerts at the Hollywood Bowl. Last summer, he led Rachmaninoff programs that left a strong impression on the musicians, positioning him as a viable candidate for the role he now assumes.

Early Beginnings

Born in Oxford, England, in 1975, Harding launched his career at 17 as Simon Rattle’s assistant at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. His career has since progressed through prestigious roles across Europe and Asia, including with the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra and Orchestre de Paris.

Despite his accomplishments, Harding’s appointment marks a shift from the L.A. Phil’s trend of selecting young, emerging talent such as Zubin Mehta, Gustavo Dudamel, and Esa-Pekka Salonen. With the orchestra’s growth, the demand for seasoned leadership has emerged alongside its expansive ambitions.

Preparing for a Unique Challenge

Harding recognizes the unique responsibilities of leading the L.A. Phil. The orchestra is deeply integrated with various arts and educational programs, operating out of venues like Disney Hall and the Hollywood Bowl. Harding’s versatility is seen as a benefit, with plans to engage more with these cultural aspects.

He concurrently maintains professional commitments in Rome with Santa Cecilia, aiming to cultivate a new vision for the L.A. Phil through collaboration with past directors like Salonen and Dudamel.

Collaboration and Future Plans

The orchestra … believes in him as the ideal conductor who could take them to the next level.

This endorsement from L.A. Phil President and CEO Kim Noltemy highlights Harding’s acceptance within the orchestra. Harding has expressed intentions to build on established relationships with peers, including Salonen, Dudamel, and Anna Handler. His previous tenure with the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra and partnerships in the Baltic Sea Festival reflect his collaborative ethos.

Looking ahead, Harding aims to enhance the orchestra’s community impact, with plans such as touring with the Youth Orchestra L.A. in synch with the centennial of Frank Gehry in 2029. He aspires to marry his extensive experience with fresh insights gained from engaging with L.A.’s diverse cultural landscape.

While Harding’s immediate base will remain in Paris, his long-term plans involve a deeper engagement with the L.A. Philharmonic community. Alongside his musical pursuits, Harding intends to pursue transatlantic jet piloting, further highlighting his multifaceted interests and dedication to bridging distances.