Last week, the Orchestre Philharmonique de Strasbourg announced the extension of Aziz Shokhakimov’s contract as Artistic and Musical Director until the end of the 2027/28 season.

Aziz Shokhakimov took on the position in 2021 for an initial contract of 3 years, which was then extended to the end of 2026. Under his leadership, the orchestra have embarked on international tours, notably to South Korea in 2022, and released multiple highly acclaimed recordings on Warner, highlighting Russian and French repertoire in particular. As part of his tenure, Shokhakimov appears regularly at the Opéra National du Rhin, including in 2024 for a new production of Lohengrin.

Shokhakimov said, ​“I am very pleased to extend my contract with the Orchestra, with which I have built a wonderful relationship. It is a great pleasure for me to work in Strasbourg and to experience this atmosphere of mutual respect and trust during rehearsals.”

The announcement came a few days before a triumphant season-opening concert with Shokhakimov and star cellist Gautier Capuçon. Upcoming highlights include Puccini’s Messa di Gloria, a return to the Philharmonie de Paris, and a German tour.