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The Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra has announced that Donald Runnicles will be its next Chief Conductor, succeeding Marek Janowski, who retired after the 2022/2023 season.

Runnicles is one of the few southpaw conductors and is 69 years old, born in Edinburgh, Scotland. According to the announcement, his official term will begin in the 2025/2026 season. Prior to that, he will begin his chief conducting duties in the 2024/2025 season.

He has been the General Music Director of the Deutsche Oper Berlin since 2009, and his contract renewal has extended his term until 2027, but he will retire from this position in 2026. Since 2001, he has also served as Principal Guest Conductor of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

Photo：Grand Teton Music Festival