ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra Names Honorary Conductor

The American conductor Marin Alsop has been awarded the honor after six years as the orchestra’s chief conductor 

The ORF Radio-Symphonieorchester Wien (RSO Wien) has unanimously selected Marin Alsop as its honorary conductor, recognizing her dedication to the orchestra throughout her six-year tenure as chief conductor.

Under Alsop’s leadership, the RSO Wien made its first appearance at the BBC Proms in 2022, plus embarked on tours to Spain, France, and Japan. Together, they have also recorded many critically acclaimed albums, including John Adams’ “City Noir,” which earned an ICMA Award and a GRAMMY nomination in 2024. 

In presenting Alsop’s new title, the RSO Wien also cited her life’s work as one of the first women to pursue an international conducting career, helping pave the way for following generations of female conductors. 

Currently, she also serves as chief conductor of the Polish National Radio Symphony and principal guest conductor of both the Philadelphia and Philharmonia orchestras. 

Alsop’s other roles include conductor of honour with the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra, and music director laureate and OrchKids founder at the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, where she held a 14-year tenure as music director.

In her new role with RSO Wien, upcoming projects with the ensemble include concerts and recordings planned for the upcoming 2025/26 concert season.

“With this title, the musicians of the ORF RSO Vienna honour Marin Alsop for her exceptional commitment, artistic vision, and lasting impact on the orchestra’s international profile,” the orchestra posted on Instagram. 

“I was so touched and honored to be bestowed with the title of “Ehrendirigentin” (Honorary Conductor) by unanimous decision of the musicians of [RSO Wien],” Alsop added on Facebook. “I greatly look forward to returning often with important projects and recordings to come!”