Sir Simon Rattle
Features, videos, recordings and concerts with our Conductor Emeritus
Sir Simon Rattle is our Conductor Emeritus, having been Music Director from 2017–23. He first appeared with the LSO in 1977, at the age of 22.
Highlights with the Orchestra over the years have included the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games, conducting the Orchestra in London’s Trafalgar Square in the annual BMW Classics concert, appearances at the BBC Proms and Edinburgh International Festivals, tours throughout Europe, Asia and Latin America, and numerous concerts at the Barbican Centre, where the LSO is Resident Orchestra. Sir Simon Rattle was awarded a Knighthood by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for his services to music in 1994 and received the Order of Merit in the 2014 New Year’s Honours.
Videos
News & Stories
Obituary: Kurt-Hans Goedicke, 1935-2025
The LSO is saddened to hear of the passing of Kurt-Hans Goedicke, former Principal Timpani.
Obituary: Terence Johns, 1944-2025
The London Symphony Orchestra is saddened to hear of the passing of Terence Johns, former Assistant Principal Horn.
Obituary: Brian Clarke 1933-2025
The London Symphony Orchestra is saddened to hear of the passing of Brian Clarke, former Co-Principal Viola.
Obituary: Boris Claudio 'Lalo' Schifrin, 1932–2025
The London Symphony Orchestra is deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary composer, conductor, and pianist Boris Claudio ‘Lalo’ Schifrin.
Press Announcement: Dame Kathryn McDowell steps down as Managing Director in July 2026
Dame Kathryn McDowell has decided to step down as Managing Director of the London Symphony Orchestra in July 2026 at the end of the 2025/26 season.
Obituary: Alfred Brendel, 1931–2025
The London Symphony Orchestra is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the legendary pianist Alfred Brendel.
Concerts
Recordings
Reviews
‘Six thousand people, from arena to gallery, were stock still, honouring the performance, overwhelmed by it. Then came the cheers’ The Observer, Sep 2023
‘Wistful and life-enhancing, a terrific farewell for the departing chief … it would be hard to devise a more joyous programme – as well as one closer to Rattle’s musical heart and ethos.’ ★★★★★ The Guardian, Jun 2023
‘Rattle does this kind of modernist mega-entertainment supremely well, and he never stinted on cheek, swagger and pizzazz.’ ★★★★★ The ArtsDesk, Jun 2023
