Osmo Vänskä Extends Music Director contract with Minnesota Orchestra until 2022

10/7/2017

Osmo Vänska

Osmo Vänskä has signed a new three-year contract to continue as Music Director of Minnesota Orchestra through to its 2021/22 season, bringing his tenure with the Orchestra to 19 years.

Key highlights of Vänskä’s tenure with the Orchestra include 15 recordings, winning the ​‘Best Orchestral Performance’ Grammy Award in 2014 for their second Sibelius album, five major European tours, initiating and conducting the annual Future Classics concert, and various educational projects.

During the 2017/18 season in Minnesota, Osmo will lead concerts commemorating Finland’s Centennial, a world premiere by Sebastian Currier, a two-week Tchaikovsky Marathon and Mahler’s Symphony Nos.1 and 4.

“When I first joined the Orchestra, I spoke often about how the Minnesota musicians were willing to work hard every day. I am still inspired by their work ethic, their constant striving and their artistry. I am proud of what we have done together and very happy to continue working with these great musicians in this community that values the arts very much.”

Osmo Vänskä

“Osmo Vänskä’s impact on the Minnesota Orchestra over the course of his tenure has been exceptional. The partnership he and the musicians have formed is one of the greats in Minnesota Orchestra history ― and there is so much more that he and the Orchestra can do together. We are thrilled to announce this extension.”

Chair of the Board - Marilyn Carlson Nelson

“In addition to cultivating a strong partnership with the Orchestra, Osmo enjoys a unique and dynamic chemistry with Minnesota audiences. We are very happy the Orchestra and this community will continue to benefit from his artistic leadership.”

President and CEO - Kevin Smith