Palermo Classica is pleased to announce the appointment of South Korean conductor Sol Chin as Principal Conductor of the Palermo Classica Orchestra for the three-year period 2026–2028.
Regarded as one of the most promising figures of the new generation of Asian conductors, Sol Chin has made a name for herself on the international stage thanks to a career that has seen her collaborate with leading orchestras in Europe and Asia. She is Principal Conductor of the Daegu International Symphony Orchestra, has conducted orchestras across Europe and Asia, and has performed in prestigious venues such as the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Rudolfinum in Prague and the Musikverein in Vienna, and was recently honoured in Korea with the prestigious Hong Jin-Ki Creator Award for her contribution to culture. She is also particularly admired for her ability to combine the great symphonic repertoire with innovative and multidisciplinary projects.
A musician of great energy and versatility, she combines a profound knowledge of the symphonic repertoire with a particular sensitivity towards contemporary forms of expression and innovative projects – qualities that make her a particularly significant figure within the artistic vision of Palermo Classica.
Sol Chin’s appointment stems from an artistic relationship forged over the last three years, during which a natural harmony of vision and purpose has developed between the Maestro and Palermo Classica.
This collaboration also forms part of the deep bond that the Festival has developed over the years with South Korea, one of the most dynamic and fascinating nations on the international music scene. Indeed, numerous Korean artists regularly take part in Palermo Classica’s events, both as part of the summer Festival and the winter concert season, helping to foster an artistic dialogue that the Festival considers particularly valuable and for which it harbours sincere admiration.
Their presence today marks a further step along this path, strengthening an artistic relationship that looks to the future and which will help to further consolidate the Festival’s international profile.
During the 16th edition of the Palermo Classica International Festival, Sol Chin will conduct three major productions: the symphonic concert Beyond the Stars on 8 August; the grand opera gala Verdi 125°, A Night at the Opera on 12 September; and the closing concert Rock Symphony, The Show, scheduled for 17, 18 and 19 September.
His appointment represents a further step in the Festival’s international growth and confirms Palermo Classica’s commitment to promoting artistic figures of the highest calibre on the contemporary music scene.
We extend our warmest welcome to Sol Chin and our best wishes for this new shared artistic journey. We are confident that this collaboration will contribute significantly to the future of Palermo Classica and to the new challenges that await the Festival in the years to come.