Biography

James Conlon, one of today’s most versatile and respected conductors, has cultivated a vast symphonic, operatic and choral repertoire. Since his 1974 debut with the New York Philharmonic, he has conducted virtually every major American and European symphony orchestra. Through worldwide touring, an extensive discography and videography, numerous essays and commentaries, frequent television appearances and guest speaking engagements, Mr. Conlon is one of classical music’s most recognized interpreters.

Read full bio

Conlon is the real thing: a master of the orchestra with genuine theatricality and no discernible narcissism.

Los Angeles Times

Latest News

View all news

Upcoming performances

Full schedule

May 31 - June 21, 2025

Verdi’s Rigoletto at LA Opera

With Quinn Kelsey as Rigoletto, Rosa Feola as Gilda, and René Barbera as the Duke

Dorothy Chandler Pavillion

Los Angeles, CA

Tickets

July 13, 2025

Aspen Festival Orchestra

Bernstein with Inon Barnatan & Shostakovich's Suite from Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk (arr. Conlon)

Aspen Music Festival | Klein Music Tent

Aspen, CO

Tickets

August 9, 2025

Ravinia Festival: Liberated Voices

Song recital hosted and curated by James Conlon

Bennett Gordon Hall

Highland Park, IL

Tickets

He is a miracle of equilibrium: his dramatic intuition never fails, nor betrays the transparency of the music…

Le Monde de la Musique