The Teatro Municipal de Santiago has named Chilean conductor Paolo Bortolameolli as the new principal conductor of the Orquesta Filarmónica de Santiago. From 2026 to 2028, his appointment marks a return to the orchestra, where he has maintained a close artistic relationship since 2013. His tenure will also coincide with the orchestra’s 70th anniversary, a milestone that will be celebrated with key performances starting in 2025.
Bortolameolli reflected on his new role: “The Orquesta Filarmónica de Santiago has been an integral part of my musical life. I am thrilled to embark on this journey as its principal conductor.”
The selection process involved input from the orchestra musicians, highlighting a collaborative approach to leadership. Teatro Municipal’s general director, Carmen Gloria Larenas, emphasised Bortolameolli’s artistic vision: “His deep connection with the orchestra, combined with his international experience, will bring a renewed energy to our performances.”
Bortolameolli has led ensembles across the Western Hemisphere, including engagements with the Orquesta Sinfónica Simón Bolivar (Caracas), Orquesta Filarmónica de Buenos Aires, Kansas City, Houston, and San Francisco symphonies and the LA Philharmonic In Europe, he is a regular and return guest to the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra Haydn (Bolzano), Helsinki Philharmonic and the Orchestra della Toscana (Florence). He is known for his innovative approach to programming and his efforts to engage new audiences with classical music.
Bortolameolli, who has a background in music education and outreach, has expressed interest in expanding the orchestra’s engagement with Chilean audiences through innovative programming and multimedia projects.
His first official performances as principal conductor will take place in 2025 as a prelude to his tenure.
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