The Royal Opera House has today announced Jakub Hrůša as the new Music Director, succeeding Antonio Pappano, who leaves to become Chief Conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra from September 2024. Hrůša will take up the post from September 2025 but becomes Director Designate with immediate effect. 

Hrůša, who conducted Royal Opera House’s 2018 production of Carmen and Lohengrin in 2022 to great critical acclaim, will share House responsibilities with Pappano for the 2024/25 season.

The Czech conductor currently holds the position of Chief Conductor of Bamberg Symphony, a position he has held since 2016, as well as being Principal Guest Conductor of both Czech Philharmonic and Orchestra dell’Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, of which Pappano is Music Director. Hrůša’s demand as a guest conductor spans collaborations with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, Bavarian Radio Symphony and Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra as well as the Glyndebourne Festival, serving as Musical Director for the Glyndebourne Tour from 2010 to 2012.

The appointment has been received enthusiastically by orchestra members and Hrůša alike. Speaking of his appointment, Hrůša said ‘I have always dreamt about a long-term relationship with a house where one can reach the highest standards in opera … I am thrilled to accept the position of Music Director, and I feel immensely excited about the future collaboration.’

Following 22 years of dedicated work from Pappano, the position will certainly be big shoes to fill, but it appears orchestra members are excited for Hrůša's appointment. Margaret Campbell, Chair of the Orchestra Committee and Section Principal Flute with the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House said: 'The Orchestra of the Royal Opera House are thrilled to welcome Jakub as Music Director Designate … The Orchestra enjoyed every minute of Lohengrin, which was in no small part due to Jakub’s deep insight and collegial approach.’