Orquesta y Coro Nacionales de España announces Kent Nagano as their next Chief Conductor and Artistic Director (Director Titular y Artístico), starting in September 2026, for an initial period of 5 years. Nagano will conduct the orchestra in eight programmes per season, plus touring and recordings. Kent Nagano commented: ​“The deep cultural richness of Spain, as reflected through its language, history, arts, literature, music, and tradition, has inspired the international community throughout time. It is an honour to have been asked by the OCNE to collaborate with them as they forge the next chapter of their important music tradition, connecting the current generation to Spain’s vibrant cultural relevance. OCNE looks forward as cultural ambassadors to carrying this great tradition into the 21st century.”

Kent Nagano performs a special highlight concert in Passau Cathedral. He conducts the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra in "Verdi Requiem" with Elina Garanča, Liudmyla Monastyrska, Franceso Meli and René Pape. The concert is held in memory of long-time Festspiele Europäische Wochen Passau supporter Heinz Herrmann Thiele.’