In different words, the announcement from Berlin states that Christian Thielemann, a renowned German conductor, will take over as the general musical director of the State Opera in Germany after Daniel Barenboim's resignation due to health issues. Daniel Barenboim, who is 80 years old, had revealed his decision to step down in January after serving at the prestigious European classical music venue for 30 years, citing a serious neurological condition as the reason.

The top cultural official in Berlin, Joe Chialo, revealed that Christian Thielemann, who has frequently conducted the Staatskapelle house orchestra at the opera, will assume his new role in September 2024. Chialo mentioned that the orchestra had expressed their preference for Thielemann, considering him the perfect successor to Barenboim, representing the highest level of musical excellence.

Christian Thielemann, aged 64, expressed his intention to uphold the musical traditions during his initial five-year term but also intends to introduce elements such as more affordable and shorter matinee performances, inspired by practices in cities like New York, to attract younger audiences. He emphasized that operas remain highly relevant, addressing life's various issues, including family dramas and the #MeToo movement against sexual violence. Thielemann believes it is their responsibility to make these operas appealing to the audience.

When asked about his conducting style in comparison to the known intense approach of Barenboim, Thielemann described himself as someone who values listening and perhaps takes a more attentive approach.