Donald Runnicles

Donald Runnicles is a Scottish conductor celebrated for his dynamic leadership in both orchestral and operatic realms. Born in Edinburgh, he’s built a career bridging European tradition and global stages, currently serving as General Music Director of the Deutsche Oper Berlin and Principal Guest Conductor of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. Known for his affinity for lush Romantic works and 20th-century masterpieces, Runnicles has championed composers like Strauss and Shostakovich—evident in recent live recordings such as *Strauss: Elektra (LIVE)* and *Shostakovich: Symphony No. 10*. His tenure with the San Francisco Opera and frequent collaborations with major houses like the Metropolitan Opera highlight his knack for balancing dramatic intensity with lyrical clarity.

A passionate advocate for live performance, Runnicles infuses energy into projects like *Oceane (Live)* and *Aribert Reimann: L'invisible (Live)*, showcasing his commitment to contemporary opera. Whether leading anniversary celebrations (see *Season 60 Welcome Home*) or delving into holiday charm with *Weihnachten mit "Hänsel und Gretel"*, he brings warmth and precision to the podium. His work remains a testament to the enduring magic of shared musical moments.

Genres

Opera

Classical

Contemporary Classical

Choral

Chamber Music

Related Artists

Yannick Nézet-Séguin

Daniel Barenboim

Kirill Petrenko

Gustavo Dudamel

Valery Gergiev

Riccardo Muti

Antonio Pappano

Andris Nelsons

Zubin Mehta

Christian Thielemann

Mariss Jansons

Semyon Bychkov

Latest Release

Weihnachten mit "Hänsel und Gretel"

Donald Runnicles•

Symphonieorchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks

Album - 11 Tracks - Released August 18, 2023