Krishna Thiagarajan

Krishna Thiagarajan, DMA, joined the Seattle Symphony and Benaroya Hall as President & CEO in September 2018.

Prior to joining the Seattle Symphony, Thiagajaran was Chief Executive of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO), leading the organization through a period of significant growth while defining their international reputation. Under his leadership, the RSNO increased performances and audiences, in addition to growth in earned and contributed income. He developed the RSNO to become one of the busiest recording ensembles in Europe, producing critically acclaimed releases and accomplishing successful international tours.

Born in Karlsruhe, Germany, he was previously the Executive Director of Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, President of Symphony in C and was the Senior Director of Artistic Operations for the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. An accomplished pianist, Thiagarajan received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Indiana University and doctorate from the University of Maryland, College Park. He most recently earned his certificate for Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management from Harvard University.

A strong believer in cross-cultural collaborations and diversifying voices in classical music, Thiagarajan currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Chineke! Foundation. He also serves on the National Alliance for Audition Support Advisory Board, a Sphinx Organization-led alliance between the New World Symphony and League of American Orchestras.

Thiagarajan lives in Mercer Island with his wife, Joanna and two daughters, Mia and Priyanka.