LA Phil and Orchestre de Paris launch Salonen conducting fellowship

The programme will bring two to four emerging conductors to Los Angeles and Paris each year, combining practical orchestral experience with mentorship from Esa-Pekka Salonen.

The Los Angeles Philharmonic and Orchestre de Paris have launched the Salonen International Conducting Fellowship, a year-long programme for early-career conductors beginning in the 2027/28 season. Applications for the inaugural cohort are open.

Announced on 5 October, the fellowship will welcome two to four conductors annually. Participants will spend approximately six weeks working with each orchestra, gaining experience at Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Philharmonie de Paris.

Fellows will conduct education and community engagement performances, serve as cover conductors for major orchestral programmes and take part in professional development workshops. The programme also provides housing, travel and professional support resources.

Salonen will meet individually with each fellow twice during the year. Participants will also receive feedback from orchestral musicians, artistic staff and administrators.

“Nobody develops in isolation,” Salonen said, explaining that his own career had been shaped by people and institutions willing to invest in talent and curiosity before success was assured.

A partnership between Los Angeles and Paris

The fellowship forms part of the wider collaboration linking Salonen’s roles at the two institutions. He became the LA Phil’s Creative Director in the 2026/27 season and will take up the positions of Principal Conductor of the Orchestre de Paris and Creativity and Innovation Chair at the Philharmonie de Paris in 2027/28.

The initiative was outlined when his Los Angeles appointment was announced in September 2025. The latest announcement sets out its structure and opens recruitment.

Incoming LA Phil Music Director Daniel Harding welcomed the programme, placing it within the orchestra’s tradition of supporting emerging conductors through the Dudamel Fellowship.

Alongside their orchestral residencies, fellows will attend a week-long annual summit alternating between Los Angeles and Paris. The programme will culminate in a public performance showcasing their work.

Applications and selection

Following an international review process, shortlisted candidates will be invited to live auditions. The first audition is scheduled for 30 January 2027 in Los Angeles, with Salonen selecting the fellows after a comprehensive evaluation. The inaugural participants will be announced in spring 2027.

Applications, eligibility requirements and further details are available through the Salonen International Conducting Fellowship application portal.