The Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra (LACO) has appointed conductor and composer Matthias Pintscher as its next Music Director. Pintscher will begin his four-year term at the start of the 2027–28 season, serving as Music Director Designate throughout the 2026–27 season. He succeeds Jaime Martín, who will transition to the role of Music Director Laureate in the 2027–28 season.
Leadership Transition and Legacy
Pintscher’s appointment follows an eight-season tenure by Jaime Martín. According to LACO Executive Director Ben Cadwallader, the move represents a “defining moment” for the organization, intended to build upon the ensemble’s existing artistic legacy. Concertmaster Margaret Batjer noted that the leadership change coincides with the orchestra’s planned move to its new home at Colburn’s Terri and Jerry Kohl Hall, which is scheduled to open in the fall of 2027.
Pintscher’s History with the Ensemble
Pintscher’s connection to the organization spans nearly a decade, beginning with his role as Artist-in-Residence in 2018. During his residency, he conducted works by composers including Mahler, Ravel, and Debussy, and led various education initiatives. He also curated the “SESSION” program, which, according to the LACO website, aims to reach “culturally curious souls” by hosting performances in unconventional locations in collaboration with creative collectives like Four Larks.
Did You Know? Before his upcoming tenure, Pintscher will conduct an April 2027 program featuring Haydn’s Trauer Symphony, Kayhan Kalhor’s Blue as the Turquoise Night of Neyshabur, and Mozart’s Linz Symphony.
Future Artistic Direction
Pintscher currently serves as the Music Director of the Kansas City Symphony, a position he is contracted to hold through the 2033–34 season. His background includes a decade as Music Director of the Ensemble Intercontemporain, a Paris-based contemporary ensemble founded by Pierre Boulez. In his new role, Pintscher and the orchestra plan to balance contemporary works with the standard musical canon, maintaining a focus on community accessibility. His extensive experience includes mentoring young musicians through the Lucerne Festival Academy Orchestra and the Heidelberger Atelier.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Matthias Pintscher’s term officially begin?
Pintscher begins his four-year term as Music Director at the start of the 2027–28 season.
What will happen to current Music Director Jaime Martín?
Jaime Martín will assume the title of Music Director Laureate starting in the 2027–28 season.
Will Pintscher continue his other conducting roles?
Yes, Pintscher will continue his role as Music Director of the Kansas City Symphony through the 2033–34 season alongside his responsibilities at LACO.
How will the transition to the new concert hall influence the orchestra’s programming in the coming years?
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