Hannu Lintu starts as the Chief Conductor of the Finnish National Opera and Ballet in August 2021.
Hannu Lintu’s passion for conducting was sparked by his visit to the Savonlinna Opera Festival at the age of 11. While watching the performance of Don Carlos with his family, the young cellist was mesmerised by what was happening in the orchestra pit rather than the events on the stage. His fascination with opera was already shaping his identity as musician back then.
Operas didn’t play a major role in the conducting degree programme of the Sibelius Academy, but soon after finishing his education, Lintu was mentored by Ulf Söderblom who gave him advice for several works. Lintu has listed Wagner, Verdi, Richard Strauss and Alban Berg as the opera composers closest to his heart.
As an opera conductor, Hannu Lintu wants to be involved in each production as early on as possible. He is keen to immerse himself in the director’s plans, enjoys participating in music and direction rehearsals, explores the sets, and aims to grow together with the production from the very start.
He believes the role of the Chief Conductor of the Finnish National Opera and Ballet is a perfect fit for his life right now. He is both ready for the landmark event in his career and delighted by the opportunity to work together with his friends in his home city.
Lintu conducts three premieres in his first season as the Chief Conductor of the Finnish National Opera and Ballet: Cavalleria rusticana & Pagliacci, Billy Budd, and Salome. He will also perform as a visiting conductor in Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Vienna, Strasbourg, Milan, Chicago, Taipei, and Soul.
