Nicholas McGegan's December has been devoted to one glorious pursuit: conducting Handel's Messiah across four American cities. After well over 200 performances spanning decades, he remains convinced that the work never grows stale—because it's never truly the same twice. Each orchestra brings its own character, each group of soloists discovers something new in Handel's lines, and every audience gives the music fresh energy. This year's tour—spanning Milwaukee, Kansas City, St. Louis, and Tucson—demonstrates why McGegan remains one of the most trusted interpreters of this beloved oratorio.

Nic McGegan's fall and winter calendar reflects a conductor at the height of his interpretive powers. With a four-city Messiah tour launching in November, a prestigious collaboration uniting Yale and Juilliard students, and an upcoming Lifetime Achievement Award from Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra & Chorale, McGegan continues to demonstrate why major orchestras and conservatories across the country seek his expertise. His ability to illuminate Baroque and Classical repertoire—making centuries-old works feel vibrantly present while maintaining scholarly rigor—has made him one of the most trusted names in historically informed performance. This season showcases that rare combination: an artist whose interpretations draw audiences, whose educational residencies elevate institutions, and whose career trajectory shows no signs of slowing down.

Nic McGegan’s 2025–26 season brings together hallmark projects with some of the United States’ most distinguished ensembles. At the center are two major anchors: a Mendelssohn celebration with the Seattle Symphony and his return to Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra & Chorale as its newly appointed Music Director Emeritus. December features a festive U.S. Messiah Holiday Tour that will carry Handel’s masterpiece to audiences across four major American cities. Around these highlights are appearances with leading orchestras, opera companies, and chamber ensembles, along with ongoing collaborations at top conservatories.

Summer is a season for relaxation, renewal, and beautiful music that resonates deeply with nature’s vibrancy. As the warm days linger, Nic handpicked some of his favorite recordings from his extensive discography to create your perfect summer soundtrack. Here are four luminous albums—ideal companions for sunny days and balmy evenings.

This July marks Nic McGegan's remarkable 25th anniversary with the renowned Aspen Music Festival. Since his first appearance in 1999, Nic has enchanted Aspen audiences nearly every summer with his distinctive interpretations and infectious enthusiasm, becoming a beloved fixture of the festival.

This June, Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra & Chorale officially named Nic as Music Director Emeritus, honoring his remarkable 35-year leadership from 1985 to 2020. During his tenure, he transformed the ensemble into a world-renowned force for historically informed performance, conducting nearly 1,000 concerts and producing 40 critically-acclaimed recordings.

Nic made a much-anticipated return to the Los Angeles Philharmonic this April at Walt Disney Concert Hall, conducting a radiant program that paired Vivaldi’s Four Seasons with Mozart’s Symphony No. 29 and Haydn’s Symphony No. 103, “Drumroll.”

Nic McGegan brings his signature style and infectious joy to Walt Disney Concert Hall, April 10–13, leading the Los Angeles Philharmonic in a vibrant program of Vivaldi, Haydn, and Mozart. Concertmaster Martin Chalifour joins as soloist in The Four Seasons—a night sure to sparkle with Baroque brilliance and Classical elegance.

As winter transitions to spring, classical music lovers have plenty to look forward to, thanks to Nic McGegan’s unwavering dedication to sharing the joy of Baroque and Classical music. Whether he’s shaping a masterful performance on the podium, sharing witty and insightful conversations, or revealing behind-the-scenes moments on social media, Nic brings history to life in a way that is fresh, exciting, and deeply engaging.

As 2025 unfolds, Nic McGegan continues to captivate audiences with his artistry and warmth. With a triumphant start to the year marked by critically acclaimed performances and a celebrated new album, Nic proves yet again why he is one of the most revered figures in classical music. Let’s take a closer look at his recent accomplishments and the exciting highlights coming this spring.