Martijn Dendievel is set to assume the role of chief conductor for the Flanders Symphony Orchestra (Symfonieorkest Vlaanderen/FSO) in 2026, taking over from Kristiina Poska, who has served in this capacity since the 2019/20 season.
Dendievel's journey with the FSO began as an assistant conductor in 2018, progressing to associate conductor in 2022. In his upcoming role, he will play a pivotal part in the artistic evolution of the FSO, with aspirations of establishing it as a prominent international ensemble.
Born in 1995, Dendievel pursued studies in music theory, cello, and orchestral conducting at the Royal Brussels Conservatory. His educational path led him to Weimar as part of the ERASMUS program, where he honed his skills under the guidance of Nicolás Pasquet. Subsequently, he gained acceptance to the conductor's workshop at the Hochschule für Musik Franz Liszt.
Dendievel's passion for conducting was ignited at the age of 10 while witnessing the FSO's performance of Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto No.1, where he was captivated by the synergy between the conductor and the musicians.
Throughout his career, Dendievel has been mentored by esteemed figures such as Bernard Haitink, Christian Thielemann, Edo de Waart, and Simone Young. He has also garnered accolades including the first prize at the 2018 MDR Conducting Competition and triumphs at the Louis Spohr Conducting Competition in 2019.
His appointment as chief conductor of the Hofer Symphoniker in 2023 marked a significant milestone, bringing his expertise to a role that had long remained vacant.
Jos Roeden, FSO's general director, lauded Dendievel's return to the orchestra, highlighting his deep understanding and vision for its growth. Roeden emphasized the orchestra's potential for local and national expansion under Dendievel's leadership, recognizing the significance of having a native talent at the helm.
Expressing his gratitude and commitment, Dendievel acknowledged the orchestra's importance in his life and pledged to build upon its legacy while embracing innovation. He emphasized the orchestra's transition towards strengthening local roots while enhancing its global presence, envisioning engaging concert experiences that uphold traditional excellence.
