Theurillat will leave the Basel Symphony Orchestra in 2028

Franziskus Theurillat has served as music director of the Basel Symphony Orchestra (SOB) since 2000. Among the developments he spearheaded were the ensemble’s separation from the Allgemeine Musikgesellschaft Basel and its subsequent transition to independence. As a result, the orchestra sharpened its profile and gained increasing international recognition, as evidenced by numerous tours and award-winning recordings. Other defining moments included navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2025–26 anniversary season, during which the SOB celebrated its 150th anniversary.

Theurillat studied French horn at the Basel Academy of Music. From 1988 to 1990, he was a member of the Basel Radio Symphony Orchestra, and from 1990 to 1991, he served as principal horn with the St. Gallen City Orchestra. Starting in 1992, he rejoined the Basel Radio Symphony Orchestra, which became the Basel Symphony Orchestra following its merger with the Basel Symphony Orchestra in August 1997.

The early announcement of the resignation will allow sufficient time for a thorough succession process, the SOB states in its press release.