Thierry Fischer's 14-year tenure as Utah Symphony music director came to an end a year and a half ago. During this time, he led the orchestra through vibrant eras and expanded its reach across the state. Now, a new chapter begins with the appointment of Markus Poschner as the eighth music director in the orchestra's 84-year history.

Uniting Passion and Tradition in Utah's Symphony

Markus Poschner's Arrival and Early Connection

Markus Poschner's entry into the Utah Symphony is marked by a significant early connection. In 2022, he made his U.S. conducting debut with the Salt Lake City-based orchestra, leading a performance of Beethoven's Symphony No. 5. The success of that performance led to a return engagement a year later, solidifying his bond with the orchestra. Now, as he takes on the role of music director, he is ready to build on this foundation.This first performance with the Utah Symphony was a deeply personal and intense experience for Poschner. Having conducted Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 many times before, he was struck by the unique passion, energy, and bond of trust he felt with the musicians. The style of their musicianship resonated with him, and he immediately sensed a chemistry and a sense of familiarity. This easy communication and partnership laid the groundwork for his future work with the orchestra.

Challenges and Opportunities in Abravanel Hall

The Utah Symphony currently faces a somewhat delicate situation with Abravanel Hall, its longtime home. Amid a proposed downtown Salt Lake City revitalization project, the future of the venue has been shrouded in uncertainty. An online petition calling for its preservation drew tens of thousands of signatures, and legendary composer John Williams even penned a letter in support. Most recently, the hall was added to the National Register of Historic Places, making a strong case for its preservation.Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson has expressed a commitment to keeping the hall as it is. As Markus Poschner enters Abravanel Hall as music director, he aims to expand the symphony's repertoire while also ensuring the hall's continued existence. He wants to explore works that cross genres and cultures, in addition to standard pieces, drawing inspiration from the historic hall and the unique landscapes of Utah.

Poschner's Vision for the Symphony

Poschner's vision for the Utah Symphony is one of growth and exploration. He wants to expand the orchestra's repertoire by introducing works by American composers and exploring music that transcends traditional boundaries. He believes that as individuals, we are influenced by our environment, and this extends to the art we create. By remaining open and listening, he hopes to create musical experiences that are truly unique to Utah.He also has a strong focus on music education and building the next generation of musicians. His own childhood memories of hiding under the piano while his mother taught lessons have shaped his perspective. With the symphony's robust education outreach program, he sees an opportunity to inspire young musicians and connect them with the power of music.

Poschner's Conducting Experience and Legacy

Markus Poschner comes to Utah with a rich history of leading orchestras and opera houses throughout Europe. Currently, he is the chief conductor of the Bruckner Orchestra Linz in Austria through the 2026-27 season and holds the same position with Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana through the 2024-25 season. He has also been appointed to lead the Basel Symphony Orchestra starting in the fall of 2025.Following Thierry Fischer's 14-year tenure, Poschner has big shoes to fill. Fischer came to Utah with a clear mandate to restore the orchestra's reputation and led multiple statewide tours, extending its reach to rural communities and national parks. He was also actively involved in music education projects in Haiti and commissioned new works. Poschner will build on this legacy, bringing his own passion and vision to the Utah Symphony.