Antonio Pappano

Antonio Pappano served as the Music Director of the Royal Opera House (ROH) in London from 2002 until stepping down in 2024. His 22-year tenure is one of the longest and most celebrated in the history of the institution. During this time, he elevated the ROH orchestra to world-class status and conducted countless major operatic productions.

Following his legendary run at the Royal Opera House, Antonio Pappano took over as the Chief Conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) in 2024. He succeeded Sir Simon Rattle in this highly prestigious symphonic position. This marks a transition in his career from focusing primarily on opera to leading one of the world's greatest orchestras.

Antonio Pappano is a British-Italian conductor who was born in London to Italian parents. He began his musical education studying piano, composition, and conducting before moving to the United States to further his career. His rich, cross-cultural background deeply informs his passionate and highly theatrical approach to conducting European opera.

Before his massive success in London, Pappano served as the Music Director of the Théâtre Royal de la Monnaie in Brussels from 1992 to 2002. He has also been a frequent and highly sought-after guest conductor at major opera houses like the Metropolitan Opera in New York and the Bayreuth Festival. His discography with major European orchestras is extensive and award-winning.