Former Music Directors | Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Former Music Directors

Biographies of former music directors from Theodore Thomas to Riccardo Muti

Founder and Music Director, 1891–1905

Music Director, 1905–1942

Music Director, 1943–1947

Music Director, 1947–1948

Music Director, 1950–1953

Music Director, 1953–1962; Musical Advisor, 1962–1963

Music Director, 1963–1968

Music Director, 1969–1991; Music Director Laureate, 1991–1997

Music Director, 1991–2006

Music Director, 2010-2023; Music Director Emeritus for Life 2023-