Nicholas Kraemer is a distinguished conductor known for his expertise in Baroque and Classical repertoire as well as his versatility across a wide range of musical periods and styles. His career, which spans several decades, has earned him international acclaim for his innovative interpretations, precision, and expressive leadership.
Born in 1945 in London, Kraemer initially trained as a harpsichordist, an instrument that would deeply influence his conducting style and musical philosophy. His early career was shaped by his passion for historically informed performance, which led him to work with some of the most prestigious early music ensembles.
Kraemer’s conducting career has seen him work with many of the world’s leading orchestras and opera companies. Currently serving as Principal Guest Conductor of Music of the Baroque in Chicago he has held positions as Principal Guest Conductor of the Manchester Camerata and the Musikkollegium Winterthur in Switzerland. In addition, he served as Music Director of the Irish Chamber Orchestra from 2002 to 2007. His guest conducting engagements have included appearances with ensembles such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Berlin Philharmonic, Czech Philharmonic, the BBC Philharmonic, the Minnesota Orchestra, and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, among others.
His operatic credits are equally impressive, with performances at the Glyndebourne Festival, English National Opera and major houses across Europe.
Kraemer is widely regarded for his insightful interpretations of Handel, Bach, and Vivaldi, as well as for his ability to draw out the nuances and subtleties in music from the Classical and early Romantic periods. His performances are marked by a balance of technical precision and emotional depth, often incorporating historically informed practices while remaining accessible to modern audiences.
In addition to his conducting work, Kraemer is a respected educator, frequently giving masterclasses and workshops. He continues to inspire both musicians and audiences with his dedication to exploring the full expressive potential of the works he conducts. Through his deep understanding of musical history and performance practices, Nicholas Kraemer remains a vital force in both contemporary and historical music scenes.
2024-25 season
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.
