The Grammy Award-winning Minnesota Orchestra, now in its second century, ranks among America’s top symphonic ensembles, with a distinguished history of acclaimed performances in its home state and around the world; award-winning recordings, broadcasts and educational engagement programs; and a commitment to commissioning and performing the music of our time.  In September 2025, Danish conductor Thomas Søndergård began his third season as music director.

Danish conductor Thomas Søndergård, who in September 2025 began his third season as music director of the Minnesota Orchestra, is a highly regarded conductor in both the orchestral and opera spheres. He has earned a reputation for incisive interpretations of works by composers from his native Denmark, a great versatility in a broad range of standard and modern repertoire, and a collaborative approach with the musicians he leads. Highlights of his 2025-26 season in Minnesota include opera-in-concert performances of Bartók’s Bluebeard’s Castle, a festival of music from Nordic countries, collaborations with renowned soloists such as Joyce DiDonato, Yo-Yo Ma and Kirill Gerstein, and a Listening Project concert focused on the music of underrepresented composers. 

James Ehnes has established himself as one of the most sought-after musicians on the international stage. Gifted with a rare combination of stunning virtuosity, serene lyricism and an unfaltering musicality, Ehnes is a favorite guest at the world’s most celebrated concert halls. He is currently the artistic director of the Seattle Chamber Music Society and was named Artist of Year at the 2021 Gramophone Awards.