Lahav Shani Celebrates Acclaimed Premiere with Munich Philharmonic
Munich, September 17 – The era without a chief conductor for the Munich Philharmonic has officially ended. Lahav Shani, the Israeli chief conductor, celebrated a highly acclaimed premiere for the first joint concert season, receiving enthusiastic applause from the audience. For the musicians, this not only marked the end of a roughly four-year period without a chief conductor, but also showcased their impressive musical prowess and immense potential through their energetic and virtuosic interplay on stage at the Isarphilharmonie.
Krause Praises Shani as a Godsend for Munich
“Shani is a real godsend for Munich,” stated Mayor Dominik Krause (Greens) in his brief welcoming speech. He assured the Philharmonic and Shani – the “youngest chief conductor of the Philharmonic in 100 years” – of his unwavering solidarity, both personally and on behalf of the Bavarian capital. He emphasized that antisemitism, hatred, and incitement should never be tolerated.
In 2022, the then chief conductor, Russian Valery Gergiev, was dismissed from the Philharmonic after he refused to distance himself from the Russian invasion of Ukraine. When Shani, born in Tel Aviv, was introduced as his successor in 2023, the orchestra was thrilled, speaking of a “love marriage” and a new era.
Personnel Decision Also Criticized
Shani, at 37 years old, is full of drive and ambition. In March, he announced plans for the orchestra to go on more tours. He had already conducted the Munich Philharmonic several times before his official debut. However, his appointment also sparked debate, partly because Shani is also the music director of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. Critics questioned his stance on the Israeli government regarding the war in Gaza.
For instance, the Flanders Festival Ghent 2025 disinvited the Philharmonic and Shani for a guest performance, a move that was criticized as antisemitic not only in Germany. Belgium’s head of government at the time distanced himself, speaking of damage to his country. Elsewhere, concerts were disrupted by protests.
The Munich Philharmonic, however, stood united behind Shani. For security reasons, police officers were also present at the concert premiere.
Pianist Argerich and Tölzer Knabenchor Soloist Captivate Audience
During Shani’s official debut, star pianist Martha Argerich delivered an unparalleled performance of Maurice Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G major. The soloist of the Tölzer Knabenchor and the Munich Philharmonic Choir also received minutes of applause for Leonard Bernstein’s “Chichester Psalms.”
Source: https://www.stern.de/gesellschaft/regional/bayern/muenchner-philharmoniker–dirigent-lahav-shani-feiert-umjubelte-premiere-in-muenchen-38269822.html
