The Los Angeles Philharmonic announces that British-born conductor Daniel Harding will become its next music director. Multiple outlets report that Harding, 50, is set to begin his tenure in the 2027/28 season, signing an initial contract expected to run for six years. The appointment follows the orchestra’s transition away from Gustavo Dudamel, who has served as music director since 2009. According to the reports, Dudamel leaves the role in August 2026 as he takes on a new position as music and artistic director of the New York Philharmonic. Despite departing Los Angeles, Dudamel is described as maintaining continuing ties to the Los Angeles Philharmonic as its artistic and cultural laureate. The coverage also notes Harding’s background outside conducting, including references to his experience as an Air France pilot. Collectively, the sources describe a planned leadership change for the orchestra, with Harding slated to step in after Dudamel’s departure.