Chicago Symphony Orchestra Extends Conducting Apprentice Residency

The ensemble’s association has invited Lina González-Granados to continue as its Sir Georg Solti Conducting Apprentice through the 2022/23 season

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association’s (CSOA) International Sir George Solti Conducting Apprenticeship was established by CSO music director Riccardo Muti in 2009. Named after past CSO music director, Sir George Solti, the apprenticeship helps develop the careers of emerging conductors.

Conductor Lina González-Granados began her apprenticeship in 2020 — which was paused for the first few months due to the pandemic and resumed in the fall of 2021. Her now extended contract will see her participate in two new residencies planned next season in May and June 2023. 

González-Granados will continue to be mentored by Muti, observe CSO rehearsals and concerts, plus take part in education and community engagement activities as well as performances supported by the CSO’s Negaunee Music Institute. 

Born and raised in Cali, Colombia, González-Granados became the first Latina to lead the CSO and made her debut in subscription concerts in April 2022. She led the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and appeared at the 2022 Chicago Youth in Music Festival. This year, she has stepped in twice for Muti, conducting CSO programs including one featuring solo violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter.

González-Granados has been a recipient of the Taki Concordia Conducting Fellowship and past winner at the La Maestra International Competition for Women Conductors, the Solti Foundation’s Career Assistance Award, and the 2021 Sphinx Medal of Excellence.  

Currently serving as a Conducting Fellow of the Philadelphia Orchestra, as well as artistic director of Unitas Ensemble, which she founded to promote the works of Latin-American composers, González-Granados’ upcoming projects include opening the 2022/23 season of the Los Angeles Opera, where was recently named resident conductor.

“This year has provided more opportunities for me to work together with Lina González-Granados as the Solti Conducting Apprentice,” said Muti in the press release. “It is important to me to support the next generation of musicians and I admire her dedication and commitment to music. I look forward to her returning in this role next season.”

“It is an honor to continue as the CSO’s Solti Conducting Apprentice,” added González-Granados. “Since 2020, I have grown as a conductor through many different musical experiences shared with the incredible musicians in Chicago and from observing and working with Maestro Muti. I am also deeply touched by the enthusiasm of Chicago audiences in the concert hall and look forward to coming back next year.”