Tarmo Peltokoski named new HK Phil music director

Finnish conductor Tarmo Peltokoski has been named the new music director of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra (HK Phil), succeeding Dutch maestro Jaap van Zweden from the 2026-27 season. The 24-year-old is the youngest director in the philharmonic's history. He made his debut with the orchestra at a concert in June last year. Speaking to RTHK Radio 4, Peltokoski compared the experience of leading the HK Phil to driving a luxury car. "It's absolutely world class. So it's a luxury car, so to say. I actually don't drive actual cars, but now I can drive the HK Phil. I was super impressed. We had our first rehearsal, and I'm excited for the years to come," he said. The award-wining composer studied piano at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, and is also interested in music comedy and improvisation. In January 2022, he was awarded “Principal Guest Conductor” of The Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen in Germany, the first conductor to hold the position in the orchestra’s 42-year history. David Cogman, chairman of HK Phil's board of governors, said he is delighted to welcome the Finnish musician on board. "He is a remarkable and visionary musician, and we are very fortunate that he will write the next chapter in our orchestra’s history," he said. The chief executive of HK Phil, Benedikt Fohr, said the appointment of Peltokoski marked a significant milestone. "He is a highly talented musician from the younger generation. Under his leadership, we wish to inspire a new generation of music lovers, and continue to enhance our artistic excellence and elevate our reputation in Hong Kong and beyond," he said.