The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra (ESO) has appointed acclaimed Canadian conductor Jean-Marie Zeitouni as its next music director. He is only the third Canadian—and ninth conductor overall—to lead the ESO since its founding in 1952, marking a significant milestone for the orchestra.
Following an extensive international search, Zeitouni emerged as the top choice, bringing exceptional artistry, visionary leadership, and a deep connection with both the orchestra and its audiences. A respected conductor on the global stage, he has performed in Paris, New York, Hong Kong, Rio de Janeiro, Brussels, Detroit, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Vancouver, and Calgary. His career includes collaborations with the Handel and Haydn Society of Boston, the National Symphony Orchestra of Mexico, and the Hong Kong Philharmonic. He has also appeared at esteemed festivals such as Lanaudière, Domaine Forget, Grant Park, and New York’s Mostly Mozart Festival. Recognized for his musical excellence, he has received multiple JUNO nominations and won the 2007 JUNO Award for Classical Album of the Year for Piazzolla on ATMA Classics.
Zeitouni’s relationship with the ESO dates back to his debut with the orchestra in 2006. Since then, he has conducted more than 35 performances with both the ESO and Edmonton Opera. His connection with the musicians and audiences led to his appointment as an artistic partner in the 2019–20 season. His concerts have been celebrated for their musical depth, vibrant interpretations, and genuine joy in music-making, setting the stage for this exciting new chapter in his career.
“This appointment is a tremendous honour and the fulfillment of a long-held dream,” says Zeitouni. “This orchestra welcomed me early in my career, and over the years, it has become a true artistic home. I have the greatest respect for the musicians and the entire organization. Edmonton is home to one of North America’s finest orchestras and to an acoustic gem, the Winspear Centre. To help shape its future is both a joy and a responsibility—one I embrace with energy and passion. Edmonton is a vibrant city with a passionate, engaged audience that supports its artists. I’m excited to deepen my connection with this wonderful community that champions bold ideas and artistic creativity.”
Zeitouni joins a distinguished line of artistic leaders at the ESO, including Alexander Prior, Bill Eddins, Grzegorz Nowak, Uri Mayer, Pierre Hétu, Lawrence Leonard, Brian Priestman, and Lee Hepner. Under their guidance, the orchestra has grown into one of Canada’s leading ensembles.
“Jean-Marie Zeitouni’s appointment is a defining moment for the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra,” says Annemarie Leenhouts-Petrov, president and CEO of the Winspear Centre and ESO. “As a distinguished Canadian conductor and a deeply gifted musician and collaborator, I look forward to our work together. His warmth and generosity have touched our musicians and audiences since his first performances with the ESO 20 years ago—who could ask for a better foundation for this exciting new relationship? With his vision, musical leadership, and keen intelligence, we have the opportunity to become the most relevant orchestra of the 21st century, cherished in our home city and recognized well beyond our province and country.”
ESO concertmaster Robert Uchida echoes the excitement: “Jean-Marie Zeitouni is an extraordinary musician and an inspiring leader. His passion, energy, and artistic vision bring out the best in our orchestra, and we are thrilled to embark on this new chapter with him as our music director. His deep connection with the ESO has already created so many memorable moments, and we can’t wait to share what’s next with our audiences.”
Zeitouni will officially take on his new role in the 2025–26 season, launching his tenure with a debut performance on Sept. 27 and 28, 2025. The season opener will feature a compelling program, including Dvořák’s Violin Concerto with violinist Jacques Forestier, Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5, and Avé by Canadian composer John Estacio. With his appointment, Edmonton audiences can anticipate a new era of artistic excellence, innovation, and engaging performances from the ESO.