Daniel Harding named musical director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic

British Harding, who is also a pilot for Air France, succeeds the charismatic Gustavo Dudamel, who led the orchestra for nearly two decades, and has signed a six-year contract starting in the 2027–28 season.

Harding, who resides in Paris, will conduct for eight weeks in his first season and then expand his commitment to 12 weeks annually.

Another appointment, Esa-Pekka Salonen, will also take up a position with the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 2026. The Finnish composer and conductor will become the orchestra's creative director, an appointment that will last for five years.