Recognized as one of classical music’s most compelling and imaginative conductors, Eric Jacobsen is celebrated for bringing fresh perspective to the orchestral repertoire while championing new music and partnerships across genres. Hailed by the New York Times as “an interpretive dynamo,” Jacobsen has earned an international reputation as both a conductor and cellist whose curiosity, warmth, and collaborative spirit create meaningful connections with audiences.

Jacobsen is Music Director of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, where he continues to shape the orchestra’s artistic vision through adventurous programming, innovative partnerships, and dynamic performances. He also serves as Music Director of the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, leading the ensemble in ambitious artistic initiatives and expanded community engagement since 2015.

As Artistic Director and co-founder of The Knights, the adventurous New York-based chamber orchestra created with his brother, violinist Colin Jacobsen, Eric continues to redefine the orchestral concert experience. What began as informal music-reading sessions among friends has grown into one of today’s most distinctive ensembles, celebrated for its fearless programming and genre-crossing performances. Under Jacobsen’s leadership, The Knights have built an acclaimed discography featuring longtime collaborators including Yo-Yo Ma, Gil Shaham, Aaron Diehl, Gabe Kahane, and Anna Clyne, while continuing major artistic projects and residencies that expand the possibilities of the orchestral experience.

A lifelong collaborator, Jacobsen’s musical journey began as a young cellist in a deeply musical family. Together with his brother Colin, he co-founded the acclaimed string quartet Brooklyn Rider and toured internationally as a member of Silkroad alongside Yo-Yo Ma. These experiences continue to shape his belief that music is rooted in curiosity, conversation, and shared human connection.

In demand as a guest conductor, Jacobsen makes his debut with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Nashville Symphony, returns to the New Jersey Symphony and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and continues ongoing relationships with the Chicago Symphony, Colorado Symphony, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and the Dresden Musikfestspiele. He has also appeared with the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Grant Park Music Festival.

Whether leading a symphony orchestra, chamber ensemble, or multidisciplinary collaboration, Jacobsen brings storytelling, joy, and a spirit of discovery to every performance. His engaging approach invites audiences of all backgrounds into what he describes as “musical conversations,” making orchestral music feel immediate, welcoming, and deeply human. Jacobsen is married to Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Aoife O’Donovan, and together they have a daughter.
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Download Eric’s full bio here. A short bio (about 250 words) can be found here.