Dominique Meyer, the outgoing director of La Scala in Milan, has been appointed as the general director of the Lausanne Chamber Orchestra starting July 15. Meyer will continue his role at La Scala until the end of his mandate on February 28, 2025. His successor, Italian Fortunato Ortombina, will assume the role of designated director from September 1, 2024, and take over officially on March 1, 2025.
In Lausanne, Meyer will be joined by Julie Mestre, currently the general director of the Orchester des Pays de Savoie, as the director of operations from September 1. The duo will work closely with Renaud Capuçon, the artistic director of the Lausanne Chamber Orchestra.
Meyer, who had unsuccessfully requested a renewal of his mandate at La Scala, expressed that he is leaving his post with 'serenity' and without 'bitterness,' despite being retired by a ministerial decision. The Minister of Culture, Gennaro Sangiuliano, set the age limit for directors of opera theaters at 70, preventing Meyer's renewal as he will reach this age in August 2025.
This decision comes amidst a broader context of the public cultural service being influenced by the far-right council led by President Giorgia Meloni. The La Scala orchestra had pushed for Meyer's reappointment, leading to a standoff with the authorities. A similar situation occurred in 2023 with Stéphane Lissner, director of the Naples Opera, who was reinstated by Italian justice after a legal battle.
- Dominique Meyer will officially start his new role as executive director of the Lausanne Chamber Orchestra on July 15. However, he will retain his position as superintendent of La Scala until February 28, 2025, ensuring a smooth transition for his successor, Fortunato Ortombina.
- Julie Mestre, who will join Meyer in Lausanne as the director of operations, brings her experience as the general director of the Orchester des Pays de Savoie. Together with artistic director Renaud Capuçon, they aim to lead the Lausanne Chamber Orchestra to new heights.
