CHRISTIAN REIF APPOINTED NEW CHIEF CONDUCTOR OF GÄVLE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

GÄVLE, SWEDEN (April 19, 2023) — Internationally recognized 33-year-old German conductor Christian Reif has been appointed Chief Conductor of Gävle Symphony Orchestra, beginning in the 2023/24 season.

Örjan Hans-Ers, General Manager for Gävle Concert Hall, states: “It is with great joy and anticipation that we are looking forward to working with our new Chief Conductor, Christian Reif. He is the perfect match to keep developing Gävle Symphony Orchestra, which has taken giant leaps during the last decade. The future is looking bright with Christian Reif’s forthcoming tenure.”

Reif’s first concert as incoming Chief Conductor takes place on May 11, 2023 with a program of Berwald's Bayaderenfest, Clara Schumann Piano Concerto (with Alexandra Dariescu) and Mozart's Symphony No. 41 “Jupiter”.

Reif opens the orchestra’s 23/24 season on September 15, 2023, commencing his inaugural season as Chief Conductor. The program features Borodin's Symphony No. 2, Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2 (with Lucas Debargue) and the World Premiere of Lil Lacy's Aurora (commissioned by Gävle Symphony Orchestra).

Christian Reif said: “Right from the first week of our making music together in December 2021, we made an immediate connection and everything felt natural. How thrilling to now be named the next Chief Conductor of Gävle Symphony Orchestra, an ensemble that serves such a warm and supportive community. The flexibility and ability to take musical risks is something I have always enjoyed with this orchestra, and the musicians have inspired me in return.”

Reif continues: “I very much look forward to collaborating with the orchestra and administration, curating experiences for audiences that both entertain and inspire. Building on the cordial and sincere atmosphere that my predecessor Jaime Martín fostered, I am so excited to be given the opportunity to continue the musical journey with this fantastic orchestra and dedicated community. I can’t wait to meet more of the audience members and explore the city and its surroundings!”

Roza Nolcheva, Director of Programming and Artistic Planning for Gävle Symphony Orchestra, said: “I believe I speak for everyone by saying that we are very excited for the new chapter of Gävle Symphony Orchestra’s future together with Christian Reif. His natural musicality, passion, easy-going manner, obvious joy when performing, as well as his eagerness to explore the Swedish and contemporary music scene make us incredibly enthusiastic on what lies ahead.”

Christian Reif
Christian Reif is a conductor with a passion for exploring different musical genres and an ability to inspire musicians to perform at their highest level and is known for his exceptional ability to lead orchestras to new heights of creativity and artistry.

Reif's broad interest in a range of different musical styles has given him a deep understanding of historical performance practices, enriching his work as a conductor. His musical vision and high energy have made him highly sought after, and he has conducted some of the world's most prestigious orchestras, from San Francisco Symphony to Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra.

With an impressive repertoire spanning from classical to contemporary music, Christian Reif has proven to be a versatile conductor with a unique ability to interpret and convey different musical styles in a way that few others can match. His enthusiasm and humility on stage have made him a favorite among both musicians and audiences, and his passion for music shines through in every concert.

Gävle Symphony Orchestra
Gävle Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1912, is an orchestra with a rich cultural history and a passion for music that is hard to match. Their concerts are an experience that takes you on a musical journey through time and space, with a varied and inspiring program covering everything from classical to modern music.

The orchestra is made up of a group of highly talented musicians who are known for their exceptional musical skill and for giving concerts that are full of energy and life. They have collaborated with several well-known artists and conductors and have performed at some of the most prestigious music venues around the world.

Gävle Symphony Orchestra offers something for every music lover, whether you're a beginner or an experienced visitor. Their passion and commitment to music shine through in every note they play.