Our Q&A with David Robertson

Few figures in contemporary classical music embody the polymathic essence as distinctly as David Robertson. A conductor, artist, composer, and profound thinker, Robertson is an American musical visionary who has graced some of the world’s most prestigious podiums in opera, orchestral, and new music.

As a stalwart champion of contemporary composers, Robertson's legacy is etched in his ingenious and adventurous programming. His career has traversed various   positions in artistic leadership—including a transformative 13-year tenure as the Music Director of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, and his role as Chief Conductor and Artistic Director of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

His global footprint can be found on the podium of luminaries such as the New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Vienna Philharmonic, Czech Philharmonic, São Paulo State Symphony Orchestra, and the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra. Recognized for his profound contributions to the arts, Robertson holds the title of Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres of France, alongside numerous artistic awards. Beyond the podium, he serves on the Tianjin Juilliard Advisory Council and holds the position of Director of Conducting Studies, Distinguished Visiting Faculty at The Juilliard School in New York.