Itay Talgam is an accomplished orchestral conductor and leadership consultant, known for his innovative approach to organisational dynamics. Known as a "conductor of people," he applies the principles of musical collaboration to fields as diverse as government, business, education, and therapy, helping teams create harmony through cooperation.
A protégé of the legendary Leonard Bernstein, Itay has conducted prestigious orchestras worldwide, including the Orchestre de Paris and the St. Petersburg Philharmonic. As Music Director of the Tel-Aviv Symphony Orchestra and Musica Nova Consort, he received the esteemed "Best Performance of the Year" award for Israeli orchestral music. Passionate about contemporary music, he has been recognised by Israel’s Composers Association for his contribution to performing and promoting Israeli compositions.
Itay is also the author of The Ignorant Maestro: How Great Leaders Inspire Unpredictable Brilliance, which explores leadership through the unique styles of six world-famous conductors. His TED talk, Lead Like the Great Conductors, has amassed over 4 million views, cementing his reputation as a leading voice in leadership and creativity.
With an Artist Diploma in conducting from the Jerusalem Rubin Academy and further studies in France, Italy, and the US, Itay blends musical expertise with a deep understanding of philosophy. His work highlights the power of intuitive leadership, emphasising the importance of listening, adapting, and fostering collaboration.
A sought-after speaker, he has captivated audiences at global events including TED Global, Google’s Zeitgeist, DLD, and the World Economic Forum. His ability to translate the art of conducting into practical leadership strategies makes him a compelling figure in organisational development, offering valuable insights for those seeking to inspire innovation and teamwork.
Itay Talgam reveals the surprising parallels between conducting a great orchestra and leading a successful organisation. Drawing on the distinctive styles of legendary maestros, he explores how different approaches to leadership can inspire collaboration, creativity, and excellence. Through engaging storytelling and compelling video analysis, he demonstrates how conductors create harmony - not by controlling every note, but by enabling others to contribute their own voices.
