Pola Benke

Pola Benke is Music Director of the Santa Monica Symphony, Assistant and Cover Conductor of the Pacific Symphony, and Music Director of the Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra. Now beginning her first season with Santa Monica Symp

hony, she is quickly establishing herself as one of Southern California’s most versatile and dynamic conductors. Her work is distinguished by a precise and expressive podium style, a deep sense of narrative in programming, and an ability to draw vibrant, cohesive performances from orchestras of all levels.

She has previously held assistant conductor posts with the Long Beach Symphony and the Riverside Philharmonic, and her artistic growth has been shaped by mentorships with Neeme Järvi, Sian Edwards, and Paavo Järvi. Internationally, she has appeared at the Järvi Academy in Estonia, Dartington Music Festival in England, and the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music in California, she earned recognition for her curiosity, discipline, and musical insight.

Born in Poland, Benke holds Master’s degrees in both cello performance and orchestral conducting—a dual path that informs her holistic approach to music-making. With the combined perspective of performer and conductor, she approaches each score with both analytical clarity and a performer’s sensitivity.

A firm believer in the orchestra’s role as a modern cultural voice, Benke is committed to programming that embraces tradition while welcoming new and diverse perspectives. Whether she is leading a cornerstone symphony or championing a contemporary work, she aims to shape performances that are both artistically rigorous and deeply engaging for audiences.