Osmo's Finale

Photo by Greg Helgeson

June 14, 2022

This weekend was one to remember—we were joined by thousands to celebrate Osmo Vänskä's final conducting appearances as music director of the Minnesota Orchestra. Each of the three performances of Mahler's Symphony of a Thousand was sold out, and each was received by audiences with an immense amount of gratitude for the 19-year tenure of a great music director.

Osmo gestures to musicians while conducting Mahler's 8th Symphony — Mahler's 8th calls for full orchestra, eight soloists, and four choirs

The orchestra is seated with choirs behind them, soloists stand to sing while Osmo conducts — The work is called "Symphony of a Thousand" as it can seem like there are a thousand musicians on stage

Audience members gathered after each performance for a post-concert toast with Osmo

Concertmaster Erin Keefe takes a photo while other audience members watch toasts

Osmo stands on stage surrounded by musicians

Osmo gestures to the orchestra with baton held above his head

Osmo leads the Minnesota Orchestra in Mahler's 8th Symphony

Audiences clap after the Minnesota Orchestra's performance of Mahler's 8th Symphony — Audiences gave Osmo, soloists, choirs and Orchestra three standing ovations

If you missed Osmo's finale or just want to experience it again, don't fret—a video recording of the performance will be released later in July and will be available on our Digital Concert Hall.

Explore the Digital Concert Hall