The Los Angeles Philharmonic Association has appointed Susanna Mälkki as principal guest conductor of the LA Phil. She will assume the role for a three-year term in the 2017/18 season.

Only two previous conductors have held the position: Sir Simon Rattle (1981-1994) and Michael Tilson Thomas (1981-1985). Finnish conductor Mälkki began her relationship with the LA Phil in 2010 and quickly built a strong rapport with the orchestra. As principal guest conductor, Mälkki will present three weeks of concerts as part of the Walt Disney Concert Hall 2017/18 season and the Green Umbrella series. She will also be involved with other orchestra projects to be announced.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to deepen my collaboration with the wonderful Los Angeles Philharmonic and Gustavo Dudamel in the years to come,” Mälkki said. “The orchestra is one of the most exciting, versatile and skillful ensembles in the world, truly showing what a symphony orchestra of the 21st century can be.”

Mälkki’s versatility and repertoire make her a much sought-after artist. She is also chief conductor of the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra and principal guest conductor of the Gulbenkian Orchestra. She regularly works with the San Francisco, Chicago, Philadelphia, Cleveland and New York symphony orchestras.

“Susanna Mälkki is one of the most gifted conductors I know, and the orchestra also loves and trusts her,” Los Angeles Phil music and artistic director Gustavo Dudamel said. “It is wonderful to have such a vibrant artist as our principal guest, and I am very pleased and proud to welcome her to the LA Phil family.”

For information, visit www.laphilcom.