New Zealand Symphony Orchestra has appointed André de Ridder as its next Music Director for a tenure to start in 2027.

Maestro de Ridder made his NZSO debut with an acclaimed three-concert festival in 2023, his appointment comes amid continued international demand for his impressive stylistic versatility, from Baroque to contemporary music. Currently Music Director of Germany’s prestigious Theater and Philharmonisches Orchester Freiburg. The German-born conductor was recently designated Music Director of English National Opera, a title he will also assume in 2027. 

Maestro de Ridder says that from the very first rehearsal stepping on the NZSO’s podium in August 2023 he felt energised. 

The orchestra’s brilliance and warm, receptive musicality became immediately apparent to me. The shared joy of music making grew from concert to concert and I was very taken by the friendly and lively reception from the New Zealand audience. 

“I am very excited and feel truly honoured to have been chosen to become this orchestra’s next Music Director and to learn about and contribute to New Zealand’s unique musical and cultural scenery. With this fantastic group of musicians and organisation I believe we can, and need to, continue to prove how essential, life-affirming and transcending live orchestral music is, and what an orchestra can be today. I very much look forward to my upcoming visit and exciting programmes in Wellington and Auckland, and to plan for the future!” – André de Ridder