Marin Alsop Launches Tenure as First Female Chief Conductor of Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra

Photo credit: Nelson Antoine

Alsop Has Already Made History as First Woman to Serve as Head of Major Orchestra in the United States, South America, and Britain

Marin Alsop—a famous, critically acclaimed American conductor—makes history on October 24, 2019, as the first female Chief Conductor of the Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra. 

This moment—though monumental—is not a first-time experience for Alsop. In fact, it’s a moment she’s been acquainted with three-times over when she was officially confirmed the first woman to serve the head of a major orchestra in the United States, South America, and Britain. 

Now, she can officially add Austria to her list. 

Alsop will open the ensemble’s landmark 50th anniversary season with a program pairing works by Hindemith, Christopher Rouse, and the world premiere of a new commission from award-winning Russian American composer Lera Auerbach. 

The premiere, which will be held at the Vienna Konzerthaus, will be recorded for a subsequent radio broadcast. The opening night of the season will also set in motion two weeks of concerts, workshops, and masterclasses.

The 2019-2020 programming is designed to showcase the work of female composers and conductors while reflecting its new Chief Conductor’s pioneering role in the campaign for gender equality within the sphere of classical music.

 In fact, in Alsop’s first season, five out of six concerts in the Vienna Konzerthaus subscription series will be conducted by women. 

“Vienna is a musical city like no other and was central to the careers of two of my idols – Mahler and Bernstein, both of whose compositions I have conducted with this orchestra and look forward to performing again this season,” said Alsop. 

“I am excited to get started with the Vienna RSO during its anniversary season and to work with these great musicians on a wide range of concert repertoire, including world premieres, as well as on recordings, tours and educational initiatives. It’s particularly meaningful to me to have the chance to work with emergent female conductors and conduct music by three terrific female composers.”

Alsop is widely considered one of the most acclaimed conductors of our time and is frequently celebrated for her readings of core masterworks alongside her advocacy for new composition. 

Currently, Alsop serves as the Music Director for both the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra.