Yuval Weinberg appointed new Chief Conductor of the Rundfunkchor Berlin

The Rundfunkchor Berlin has a new artistic leader: starting with the 2028/29 season, the Israeli conductor Yuval Weinberg will take up the position of Chief Conductor and Artistic Director. The 35-year-old, currently Chief Conductor of the SWR Vokalensemble, succeeds Gijs Leenaars, who has shaped the ensemble since 2015. During the 2027/28 season, Weinberg will already be involved in planning and shaping the choir – a smooth transition that marks both continuity and a fresh start.

Precision, emotion and curiosity – a conductor with a global profile

Weinberg is regarded as one of the most exciting choral conductors of his generation. He made his debut with the Rundfunkchor Berlin in December 2024 at the ensemble’s traditional Christmas concert in Berlin Cathedral – presenting a programme that combined works by Anton Bruckner with contemporary compositions by Nana Forte and Eran Dinur. His musical style unites precision, emotional depth and an openness to new forms of expression.

Born in Tel Aviv, he studied choral conducting at the Hanns Eisler School of Music Berlin with Jörg-Peter Weigle and at the Norwegian Academy of Music in Oslo under Grete Pedersen. He has gained international experience with renowned ensembles such as the Bavarian Radio Chorus, Chorwerk Ruhr, and Cappella Amsterdam. His work has earned him numerous awards, including the Diapason d’or and the Preis der deutschen Schallplattenkritik.

A new chapter of sound, connection and vision

Yuval Weinberg stands for musical excellence, innovation, and a profound sense of community. His combination of artistic curiosity, human warmth and cultural openness aligns perfectly with the ethos of the Rundfunkchor Berlin. Together, they aim to “make music accessible to everyone” and to further enhance the ensemble’s international presence.

With Weinberg’s appointment, a new chapter begins for the Rundfunkchor Berlin – defined by curiosity, artistic passion, and a shared desire to explore new sonic worlds.