Olari Elts announced as Artistic Director of the Sinfonietta Riga

Estonian conductor Olari Elts has been announced as the new Artistic Director of the Sinfonietta Rīga, marking a major new chapter for the orchestra. 

From the 2026/27 season, Elts will take over from founder Normunds Šnē following the ensemble’s 20th anniversary season. With a clear artistic vision, he will build on the orchestra’s foundations while shaping future programmes that span from Ludwig van Beethoven and the classical repertoire to contemporary music, highlighting both international voices and new Latvian works. 

Widely recognised for his dynamic and creative programming, Elts also holds the position of Music Director and Chief Conductor of the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra.