Mikhail Pletnev

Biography

He made his debut as conductor in 1980. While concentrating his attention on his profession as pianist, he often conducted leading Russian orchestras. His conducting career took off in the 90's, when he founded the Russian National Orchestra (1990). Under his leadership, the RNO won for itself the reputation as one of the world's best orchestras. In 1999, he became Honorary conductor of the RNO, so he could devote more time to his piano performances and composing activities. In January 2003, at the orchestra's request, he again became leader of the RNO and a member of its Collegium of Conductors.

Apart from his work with the Russian National Orchestra, he has appeared as guest conductor with the following, among other, leading, international orchestras: Mahler Chamber Orchestra, Concertgebouw Orchestra, Tokyo Philharmonic, Philharmonia Orchestra, London Symphony, Birmingham Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic.

He has been the recipient of many high state awards - he is a member of the President of the Russian Federation's Council for Culture, and also winner of state and international prizes which include the Grammy and Triumph awards. In 2007 alone, he was awarded the President of the Russian Federation's prize, the Order "For services to the Fatherland" 3^rd degree, the Order of Daniil of Moscow, bestowed by His Holiness the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Alexei II.