Mikko Franck was born in 1979 in Helsinki, Finland. He began his conducting career at the early age of 17, and has since worked with major orchestras and opera houses across the world.
From 2002 to 2007, he was music director of the Belgian National Orchestra. In 2006, he took up the post of general music director of Finnish National Opera, and the following year was appointed artistic director and general music director, a dual position he held until August 2013.
In September 2015, Franck became music director of the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France. During his tenure, he has been deeply committed to nurturing the orchestra’s creative and eclectic style of programming, and has led several tours of Europe and Asia. His initial contract has twice been extended, most recently until September 2025. In addition to fulfilling a busy concert schedule in Paris, he regularly collaborates with leading orchestras and opera houses in Europe and beyond.
Franck’s considerable discography consists of both symphonic and operatic repertoire. His most recent recordings with the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France include works by César Franck, Richard Strauss, Claude Debussy, Igor Stravinsky and Dmitri Shostakovich.
In 2018, he was nominated as goodwill ambassador for UNICEF France. Upon his nomination he stated: “Every child is unique; every life is important. Every child, regardless of their origin, should have the right to live in a safe and healthy environment, to follow their dreams, and to realize their full potential.”
Please note: Biographies are based on information provided to the CSO by the artists or their representatives. More current information may be available on websites of the artists or their management.
