David Zinman in an interview

"Every orchestra is different."

David Zinman has been chief conductor and artistic director of the Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich since the 1995/96 season. As a guest conductor, he also regularly conducts renowned American orchestras and appears regularly in Europe with the Berlin Philharmonic, the Concertgebouw Orchestra Amsterdam, the London Philharmonia Orchestra, the Munich Philharmonic and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra.

Classicpoint.ch: When and why did you decide to become a conductor?
Actually, it was back in my school days. When I was 14, we had a conductor at school, and—even if this might sound a bit arrogant—I already knew then that I could do it better!

You've been conducting for over 40 years. What has changed in your conducting during this time?
I now know exactly what I'm doing, and accordingly, I can control everything very well.

If you had lived your life primarily in America instead of Europe, what do you think would have been different regarding your conducting?
By engaging with a multitude of interpretations from a wide variety of orchestras across Europe, I've become a better musician. Had I stayed in the USA, my focus might have remained a bit more narrowly defined.

You've been the chief conductor of the Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich since 1995. How do you see the orchestra's development during this time?
I think everyone would agree with me when I say that the Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich has consistently improved. The tonality, the interplay, the flexibility and ability to engage with the pieces, and especially the great enthusiasm and love for music, are evident in every single member.

If you compare the Tonhalle Orchestra with the world's most important orchestras, where do the differences lie?
Every orchestra is different. For me, the question isn't about comparison, but rather, what's far more important is that the Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich has essentially become a single instrument and speaks with one voice.

You have a Twitter account, you're on Facebook, and you also have accounts on other social media platforms. Are you active yourself, or do others tweet for you?
Yes, I do use Facebook a little. And once I've figured out how it works, I'll tweet myself.
 
You also give conducting masterclasses. What strikes you about young conductors today, perhaps in contrast to the past?
Young conductors today can draw from a wide variety of sources: They can access recordings, watch concert recordings of great conductors on DVD or YouTube. This doesn't automatically mean they're better, though. If someone has talent, it simply means they have the potential to develop and progress more quickly.

What are the most important points you would give young conductors as they begin their careers?
It's advisable to behave in a friendly and respectful manner at the start of your career. After all, who knows, you might meet people again on your artistic journey, and these people, if they are in leadership positions, can influence your career. Furthermore, you should treat soloists well, because they are the ones who will spread good things about you.

Looking back on your long career, which moments will you never forget?
Actually, I don't look back. I believe the most important moment is the one that comes tomorrow. It's always about the future.



Interview by Florian Schär | Classicpoint.ch | February 7, 2012
Photo: Priska Ketterer

Next concerts

December 6, 2026 - Advent music with the Zurich Boys' Choir