Juanjo Mena Concerts

Experience Juanjo Mena

Juanjo Mena is a highly regarded Spanish conductor celebrated for his insightful interpretations of Spanish and 20th/21st-century repertoire. Born in San Sebastián, Spain, he studied conducting with Francisco Ferrer and Harold Farberman, quickly establishing himself through prize wins including the Nicolai Malko Competition in Copenhagen (1993).

Mena served as Principal Conductor of the Bilbao Symphony Orchestra (2009-2017), significantly raising their international profile with critically acclaimed recordings and tours. He currently holds the position of Artistic Director of the Orquesta Sinfónica de Euskadi (Basque National Orchestra) since 2015, fostering its development and expanding its reach.

Known for his meticulous preparation and passionate performances, Mena’s style emphasizes clarity and emotional depth. He has collaborated with prominent soloists including Javier Perianes and Renaud Capuçon. His discography includes lauded recordings of works by composers like Cristóbal Halffter, Joaquín Turina, and Isaac Albéniz, often focusing on showcasing lesser-known Spanish composers. He frequently appears with leading orchestras throughout Europe and Asia, demonstrating a growing international presence.