Michael Willens

Michael Willens is an American conductor and the director of the Die Kölner Akademie, an orchestra based in Cologne, Germany, that specializes in historically informed performances. Willens has established himself as a versatile musician, with a repertoire that spans from the Baroque to the contemporary. He has received critical acclaim for his interpretations of classical and early romantic works, particularly those of Mozart and his contemporaries. Under his leadership, Die Kölner Akademie has produced numerous recordings, including works by lesser-known composers alongside those by the great masters. Michael Willens' dedication to authentic performance practice and his skillful conducting have contributed to the ensemble's international reputation for excellence in the field of classical music.