Gergiev

Valery Afanasevich Gergiev (born January 2, 1953) is a Russian conductor and pianist who has been a defining figure in the modern history of the Mariinsky Theatre. Since 1988 he has served as artistic and general director of the Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg (historically known as the Kirov), guiding its repertoire, touring, and international collaborations.

He studied at the Leningrad Conservatory under Ilya Musin and rose to prominence through his work with the Kirov Opera and Ballet Theatre. Gergiev is associated with a wide Romantic and modern repertoire, with a strong focus on Russian composers such as Mussorgsky, Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich and Prokofiev, as well as works by Wagner and other European composers. He is noted for energetic, highly collaborative performance style and for promoting contemporary music and living composers.

Internationally, Gergiev has conducted leading orchestras and opera houses around the world, and has made numerous recordings spanning symphonic and operatic repertoire. His recordings have earned multiple awards and he has been involved in cross-cultural programs and festivals.

In 2022, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Gergiev was sanctioned by several countries and organizations, leading to the curtailment of many international engagements and collaborations. Controversies surrounding his political associations have affected his global profile, while he remains a central figure in the Russian musical establishment.