Pekka Kuusisto (born 1976 in Espoo) is a Finnish violinist, conductor and composer who won the International Jean Sibelius Violin Competition in 1995 as the first Finn ever to take first prize. He moves freely between classical repertoire, folk music and experimental collaboration, and holds leading positions with the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra, Helsinki Philharmonic and Gothenburg Symphony. In 2025 he was announced as Chief Conductor designate of the Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra from April 2028.
Kuusisto and the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra released the album 'Willows' via Platoon, featuring music by Vaughan Williams, Caroline Shaw, Ellen Reid and folk songs by Sam Amidon.
Kuusisto began a two-year Artist in Residence term with the Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra, appearing as both conductor and violinist.
Kuusisto was announced as Chief Conductor designate of the Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra from April 2028, on an initial three-year contract.
The soundtrack of the animated series 'Moominvalley', co-composed by Kuusisto with Samuli Kosminen and Jarmo Saari, was released.
Kuusisto took up the role of Principal Guest Conductor of the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra, a position running until 2028.
