Russian Conductor Tugan Sokhiev to Lead 2027 Vienna New Year Concert

The Vienna Philharmonic has announced that Russian conductor Tugan Sokhiev will lead the 2027 New Year Concert. The announcement was made during the 2026 concert, following the orchestra's tradition of revealing the next year's conductor during the current performance.

Sokhiev, 48, is originally from Vladikavkaz and previously served as music director of the Bolshoi Theatre. He resigned from that position in protest against the Russian invasion of Ukraine. While he has conducted the Vienna Philharmonic before, the 2027 concert will mark his debut in this specific prestigious role. His international career began 20 years ago with a notable debut at the Teatro Real in Madrid.

The Vienna Philharmonic made the announcement during its annual New Year Concert. This timing follows the orchestra's established tradition of revealing the conductor for the following year's concert during the current performance. The announcement brings international attention to the 2027 event.

The orchestra confirmed that Tugan Sokhiev will make his debut conducting the New Year Concert. While this will be his first time leading this specific concert, he has previously conducted the Vienna Philharmonic. The conductor is 48 years old and hails from Vladikavkaz.

Tugan Sokhiev gained international recognition two decades ago during his debut at the Teatro Real in Madrid. At that time, he was identified as a young promise in the classical music world. His career has since developed to include leadership positions with major orchestras and opera houses.

Most notably, Sokhiev served as music director of the Bolshoi Theatre. He resigned from this prominent position in protest against the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This decision demonstrated his opposition to the war and shaped his public profile in the international arts community.

The Vienna Philharmonic's New Year Concert represents one of the most prestigious appointments in classical music. The concert is broadcast internationally and reaches millions of viewers worldwide each year. The tradition of announcing the following year's conductor during the current concert adds to the anticipation and global interest in the event.

The selection of Tugan Sokhiev continues the tradition of featuring world-renowned conductors. The 2027 concert will mark a significant milestone in Sokhiev's relationship with the Vienna Philharmonic, elevating him to one of the most visible positions in the classical music world.

The appointment of Tugan Sokhiev for the 2027 New Year Concert represents a significant moment in his career. The concert will provide a global platform for the conductor and showcase his interpretation of the traditional New Year's program.

The Vienna Philharmonic's choice reflects the organization's commitment to featuring diverse international talent. The 2027 concert will be closely watched by classical music enthusiasts worldwide, particularly given Sokhiev's background and the circumstances of his departure from the Bolshoi Theatre.