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 intentionally build concert programs to feature more works by composers of color, exploring music both contemporary and historic. In September 2024, Danish conductor Thomas Søndergård began his second season as music director.

Danish conductor Thomas Søndergård, who in September 2024 began his second 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. His 2024-25 season in Minnesota began with two weeks of season opening concerts featuring Yunchan Lim and Leila Josefowicz. Other season highlights include performances of Mozart’s Requiem and Puccini’s Turandot, a January festival of music from Nordic countries and the return of the Minnesota Orchestra Composer Institute.

With her “angelic” voice (Kölner Stadt Anzeiger) and “ethereal stage presence” (Sydney Morning Herald), Australian soprano Siobhan Stagg has become one of the most sought-after lyric artists of her generation. A member of Deutsche Oper Berlin’s ensemble from 2013-19, her roles included Pamina in The Magic Flute, Sophie in Der Rosenkavalier, Tytania in A Midsummer Nights’ Dream, Gilda in Rigoletto, Micaëla in Carmen, Adele in Die Fledermaus, Musetta in La Bohème, Contessa di Folleville in Il viaggio a Reims and Waldvogel and Woglinde in the Ring cycle conducted by Sir Simon Rattle.

One of the most exciting vocal talents to emerge in recent seasons, Blake Denson, described as a “roaring baritone" (Klassik begeistert), is praised for his “captivating dramatic interpretations” with “a striking upper register” and “a sound that boomed to the back of the house” (Opera Wire). Recently, Denson was named a winner of The Richard Tucker—Sarah Tucker Grant Award, the George London Foundation Competition and the 59th International Concurs Tenor Viñas Competition, and the winner in the Dallas Opera National Vocal Competition.

The Minnesota Chorale has served as the Minnesota Orchestra’s principal chorus since 2004 and is now in its 29th season under the leadership of Kathy Saltzman Romey. Founded in 1972, the Chorale is Minnesota’s preeminent symphonic chorus, with a roster of over 200 singers. Best known for its work with the two major orchestras of the Twin Cities, the ensemble is equally dedicated to programs that build and enrich community. A seasoned artistic partner, the Chorale continues to explore new artistic directions and collaborative opportunities, while earning the highest critical acclaim for its work on the concert stage. In 2018, members of the Chorale traveled to South Africa to perform alongside the Minnesota Orchestra in its historic concerts in Soweto and Johannesburg.