James Conlon

Renowned conductor James Conlon has cultivated a vast symphonic, operatic, and choral repertoire and is one of today's most versatile and respected conductors and educators. Conlon has spoken internationally about the power of creativity, the enduring importance of classical music, and leadership insights that resonate across industries. In addition to his roles in the United States, he has held significant positions as the Principal Conductor of the Paris Opera and General Music Director of the City of Cologne, Germany.

Since his 1974 debut with the New York Philharmonic, Conlon has conducted virtually every major American and European symphony orchestra. He is Music Director of LA Opera, with whom he has won four Grammy Awards and led more performances than any other conductor in the company’s history. He also serves as Artistic Director of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and Artistic Advisor of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. His tenure at the LA Opera since 2006 and his leadership roles reflect his deep commitment to the arts both locally and internationally.

Conlon is an enthusiastic advocate of the role music plays in our shared humanity and civic life. He has worked to call attention to the works of composers silenced by the Nazi regime, which led to the creation of The OREL Foundation and the Ziering-Conlon Initiative for Recovered Voices. His dedication to this cause is further exemplified in his TEDx Talk “Resurrecting Forbidden Music.” Conlon has received numerous accolades, including the Legion d’Honneur – France’s highest honor – personally bestowed by then-President Jacques Chirac in 2002. Additionally, his engagement in educational activities spans pre-performance lectures and master classes at institutions like LA Opera Connects and the Ravinia Festival.