"Klaus Mäkelä: Youngest Music Director to Lead Chicago Symphony Orchestra"

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra has appointed Finnish conductor Klaus Mäkelä as its next music director, making him the youngest in the orchestra's history at 28. Mäkelä, known for his rapid rise in the classical music world, will assume the role in the 2027-28 season, following Riccardo Muti's tenure. His appointment comes after a global search and will see him leading the CSO through at least 2032. Mäkelä's exclusive recording contract with Decca Classics will also mark the orchestra's return to releasing albums under that label.