Esa-Pekka Salonen

Esa-Pekka Salonen KBE is a renowned Finnish conductor and composer. He is currently the music director of the San Francisco Symphony and conductor laureate of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Born in Helsinki, he graduated from one of the top high schools before studying at the Sibelius Academy. Starting as a composer, Salonen unexpectedly launched his conducting career in 1983. He led the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Philharmonia Orchestra, establishing a pivotal role in their development. Salonen's work with the LA Philharmonic marked a transformative period for classical music in America.