Kirill Karabits is a renowned Ukrainian conductor, born in 1976 in Kyiv. He is internationally known for his dynamic interpretations and innovative programming. Karabits has served as the Chief Conductor of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO) since 2009, a role in which he has brought the orchestra critical acclaim. Under his leadership, the BSO has expanded its repertoire, particularly championing Eastern European music.

Bournemouth Symphony becomes “The World’s favourite orchestra of 2014”

Voices from the East, a critically acclaimed discovery series of music from Eastern Europe and central Asia

Karabits is the son of composer Ivan Karabits and grew up surrounded by music. He studied conducting at the Lysenko Music School in Kyiv and later at the Vienna University of Music and Performing Arts. His early career saw him working with major orchestras across Europe such as the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France, Strasbourg Philharmonic, Staatskapelle Weimar, Budapest Festival Orchestra among others.

Known for his deep connection to the music of his homeland, Karabits has also been involved in the rediscovery and first performances of lesser-known music from the Eastern Europe as well as Ukrainian and Soviet-era composers. His repertoire ranges from classical staples to contemporary works, making him one of the most versatile conductors of his generation.

Telemann, Pastorelle en Musique, discovery and world premiere performance/recording

CPE Bach, St John Passion, discovery and first performance in London in the composer’s 300th anniversary year

Ferenc Liszt’s opera “Sardanapalo” rediscovered

Ferenc Liszt, Mophisto Valse No. 3 for orchestra, discovery and first performance/recording

Theodore Akimenko (1876-1945) Cello concerto, discovery and world premiere

In addition to his work with the BSO as a Chef Conductor, he frequently collaborates with top-tier orchestras and opera houses around the world, including the Munich Philharmonic, the Chicago, Cleveland, Philadelphia orchestras, the London Symphony Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Orchestre National de France, Seoul Philharmonic, Chamber Orchestra of Europe, Glyndebourne and Bregenz festivals, Oslo, Zurich and Geneva Opera, Deutsche Oper Berlin among many others. His ability to bring out fresh perspectives in familiar works has made him a sought-after guest conductor.

Karabits is also an advocate for music education, often engaging in outreach activities to bring classical music to younger audiences.

Karabits as an Artistic Director of I,Culture Orchestra project

In 2024 Karabits was awarded The Order of British Empire (OBE) for his services to classical music in the UK.

Karabits’ past positions include:
Budapest Festival Orchestra, assistant conductor 1999-2002
Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France, Associate conductor (2002-2005)
Strasbourg Philharmonic, principal guest conductor 2005-2007
Deutsches Nationaltheater and Staatskapelle Weimar, music director 2016-2019
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, chief conductor 2008-2024

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