The Berlin State Opera has named Christian Thielemann its new Music Director.

Thielemann will succeed Daniel Barenboim in September of 2024.

In a statement via social media, Joe Chialo, Berlin’s Culture Senator said, “With Christian Thielemann, we are not only gaining a world-class conductor, but also the logical successor to the great maestro and honorary citizen of Berlin, Daniel Barenboim. I am very pleased that we can follow the suggestion of the designated superintendent Elisabeth Sobotka and appoint Mr. Thielemann as the future General Music Director of our state opera. Mr. Thielemann has already cooperated with the Staatskapelle Berlin with great success. With him, we ensure the highest musical excellence for our city. “

For his part, Thielemann said, “The State Opera Unter den Linden can look back on a long and glorious tradition.” As well as the State Chapel Berlin, with which an extraordinary musical harmony connects me. I am therefore very happy to return to my hometown and lead the house into the future together with Elisabeth Sobotka. Daniel Barenboim, whom I have known and worshiped for over 40 years, I am very grateful for his wonderful work and constant support. “

Thielemann is one of the most recognized conductors in the world having led the Deutsche Oper there from 1997 to 2004 and later became the artistic director of the Salzburg Easter Festival from 2013 to 2022. He became the Music Director of the Semperoper Dresden in 2012 where he will maintain the position until 2024.