conductor

“Sallinen […] is a natural conductor. He has a rhythmic drive and a sense of style, as well the ability to break boundaries with a cheerful sense of humour.” – Helsingin Sanomat

Finnish conductor Kristian Sallinen is an exceptional young talent who exhibits a natural authority and charismatic flair on the podium. He has already worked with many of the leading Finnish orchestras and is rapidly gaining international recognition.

Due to complete his Orchestral Conducting studies (with Sakari Oramo) at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki in spring 2025, Sallinen is a former student of Jorma Panula and has been mentored by Paavo Järvi, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Hannu Lintu, Jukka-Pekka Saraste and Susanna Mälkki, among others. His musical studies began at the age of five on the violin, and in 2013 he switched to the viola. A national prize-winner and member of the Seele String Quartet, Sallinen has performed at festivals across Europe and appeared as a soloist with orchestras including Finnish Radio Symphony.