President Dominique Dujols, the Board of Directors and Orchestre Français des Jeunes team led by Charlotte Ginot-Slacik are delighted to announce the appointment of Estonian conductor Kristiina Poska as Music Director from the Summer of 2025. She follows into the footsteps of the Danish conductor Michael Schønwandt who has brought the orchestra to its current heights with charisma, high standards and talent.

Kristiina Poska’s appointment is in line with OFJ’s project, based on excellence in training for symphonic repertoire, international influence and the prefiguration of the evolution of the profession of orchestral musician.

“I am extremely proud and honored to become the new Music Director of the French Youth Orchestra, and to follow into the footsteps of such magnificent predecessors. In recent years, I have been fortunate to work with young musicians and conductors on a regular basis. I find it very inspiring and rewarding, as one can focus fully to the music and work, shape and explore together in depth. I am looking forward to passing on some of my experience and knowledge to the future generation of French musicians, to enjoy the inspiring setting of the orchestra’s home base — Saline royale d’Arc-et-Senans and to perform together in some of Europe’s most prestigious concert halls.” — Kristiina Poska.

Michael Schønwandt has agreed to prolong his tenure until the end of 2024. In 2024 both Michael Schønwandt and Kristiina Poska will be working with the orchestra in alternating projects, in order to guarantee a smooth transition in the interest of the orchestra and its musicians.