Czech Philharmonic Names Jakub Hrůša as Next Chief Conductor

The esteemed Czech Philharmonic has announced that Jakub Hrůša will be their next chief conductor. This appointment marks a significant moment in the orchestra’s history, promising a fresh direction and a continued commitment to musical excellence.

A Year of Negotiations

The decision comes after a year of negotiations between the Czech Philharmonic and Jakub Hrůša. The orchestra’s director, David Mareček, along with general manager Robert Hanč, first spoke with Hrůša about the position a year ago. This Monday, the Czech Philharmonic leadership officially presented Hrůša as the new chief conductor, with his tenure beginning in the 2028/2029 season. He’ll have a five-year contract, with the possibility of a five-year extension.

“The Czech Philharmonic brings me a great inspiration to my work. When I come to it from my existing beloved orchestra in Bamberg or the upcoming place in London, but above all from various stories, I always feel that at work with the Czech Philharmonic I do not have something else I do not find anywhere else.”

—Jakub Hrůša

The announcement was made in the Suk Hall of Rudolfinum, with Mareček and Minister of Culture Martin Baxa present. Hrůša described the orchestra as a global entity, celebrating successes both domestically and internationally. For instance, they filled New York’s Carnegie Hall three times last year.

A Celebrated Conductor

Jakub Hrůša, at 43, is a leading Czech conductor. He will also become the music director of the Royal Opera in London’s Covent Garden this September. Hrůša has been recognized with accolades such as the Gramophone Award and the Opus Klassik for Conductor of the Year. He is frequently invited by top ensembles, including the Berlin and Vienna Philharmonic Orchestras. According to David Mareček, Hrůša is one of the world’s top 10 conductors.

The new chief conductor has a strong connection with the orchestra. The 20-member art council, including representatives of the 22-member body, unanimously agreed that Jakub Hrůša was the right choice.

Hrůša will spend about sixteen weeks a year with the Czech Philharmonic. Unlike the current boss, Semjon Byčkov, he will be able to stay at his home in Prague rather than a hotel. Active conductors in the modern day often end their careers around the age of seventy, so with Hrůša starting at forty-eight, the Czech Philharmonic could see him for a long time.

Looking Ahead

The Czech Philharmonic is on a path to recovery that started in 2012, as Jiří Bělohlávek took the helm after a period of some weakness. He boosted musician salaries. Jakub Hrůša is keen to solve the players’ financial situation, too. According to the orchestra’s last budget in 2024, the orchestra received around 335 million crowns from the Ministry of Culture, along with revenue from concerts and sponsorships (Czech Ministry of Culture).

Hrůša will also be championing contemporary music. He will perform the Czech premiere of the work by Bryc Dessner in the upcoming season.