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Conductor & leadership consultant

Itay Talgam

Transform leadership and orchestrate collaboration with Itay Talgam, speaker and orchestral conductor turned leadership consultant. Itay works with businesses and governments to apply musical principles to organisational dynamics, delivering insights featured at TED Global, Google Zeitgeist, and the World Economic Forum.

Trusted by TED Global, Google Zeitgeist, World Economic Forum

Itay Talgam, Speaker | Orchestral Conductor & Leader
Itay Talgam

Itay Talgam

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Typical fee range

£11k–25k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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Amsterdam, Netherlands

Starting from

£11k–25k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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Itay Talgam's biography

At a glance

  • Internationally Recognized Orchestral Conductor
  • Leadership consultant for Fortune 500 companies
  • Author and TED speaker with over 4 million views
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's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Lead Like The Great Conductors
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.

Why we recommend booking Itay

Unlock exceptional leadership with Itay Talgam, a protégé of Leonard Bernstein and acclaimed conductor. His transformative insights, drawn from orchestral dynamics, empower teams to foster collaboration and creativity. Book now to elevate your organisation’s performance and inspire brilliance.

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Trusted by TED Global, Google Zeitgeist, World Economic Forum

Testimonials

I learned more about leadership in that half an hour, than in my entire career.

Al Gore

Featured Projects

Itay Talgam - The Ignorant Maestro: How Great Leaders Inspire Unpredictable Brilliance book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Itay Talgam for my next event?
Email itay.talgam@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Itay's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.

Itay Talgam uses video analysis of legendary conductors alongside storytelling to draw direct parallels between conducting styles and leadership approaches, demonstrating how different methods of enabling — rather than controlling — produce collaboration and excellence.

What is Itay Talgam's speaking style like?
Itay Talgam uses video analysis of legendary conductors alongside storytelling to draw direct parallels between conducting styles and leadership approaches, demonstrating how different methods of enabling — rather than controlling — produce collaboration and excellence.

Itay Talgam uses video analysis of legendary conductors alongside storytelling to draw direct parallels between conducting styles and leadership approaches, demonstrating how different methods of enabling — rather than controlling — produce collaboration and excellence.

What topics does Itay Talgam specialise in?
Itay Talgam speaks on orchestral leadership parallels, collaborative organisational dynamics, and creativity through the lens of conducting. His TED talk, Lead Like The Great Conductors, has exceeded four million views, and he is a protégé of Leonard Bernstein who has conducted the Orchestre de Paris and the St. Petersburg Philharmonic.

Itay Talgam speaks on orchestral leadership parallels, collaborative organisational dynamics, and creativity through the lens of conducting. His TED talk, Lead Like The Great Conductors, has exceeded four million views, and he is a protégé of Leonard Bernstein who has conducted the Orchestre de Paris and the St. Petersburg Philharmonic.

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There is no additional cost to you beyond the speaker's fee. PepTalk's service, from shortlist to on-the-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, the team can agree preferential rates with your procurement department. Email hello@getapeptalk.com to discuss.

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I need a last-minute speaker. Can PepTalk help?

Yes. PepTalk regularly handles last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, host, or comedian quickly, often within days. Availability narrows as the date nears, so get in touch as early as you can. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.

How much does it cost to book a speaker through PepTalk?

Speaker fees vary by profile, format, and location. In the UK and Europe, virtual keynotes typically start around GBP 2,000, with top in-person speakers reaching GBP 25,000+; in the US, fees run from about USD 5,000 to USD 100,000+. Share your budget at getapeptalk.com and we'll shortlist to fit.

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Yes. If a speaker isn't listed, tell PepTalk their name and the team will approach them for you. The network extends well beyond the public roster, and PepTalk regularly books speakers who don't appear on the site. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with the name.

How quickly will I get a speaker shortlist?

You'll receive a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours of sharing your brief. Each suggestion comes with profiles, fees, and PepTalk's recommendation on the strongest fit. If you need options sooner for an urgent event, say so and the team will move faster. Start at getapeptalk.com.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a booking?

Most bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker and are set out clearly in the contract before you confirm, so there are no surprises. PepTalk's team supports you through any change. Contact hello@getapeptalk.com as soon as plans shift.

Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

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If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Can I book a speaker for a virtual or hybrid event?

Yes. Most PepTalk speakers deliver virtual and hybrid sessions with live Q&A, and virtual keynotes usually cost less than in-person because there is no travel. Tell us your platform and format and we'll match speakers experienced in online delivery. Start at getapeptalk.com.

How do I brief an insights speaker on my organisation's strategic context?

Share your organisation's top 3 strategic priorities, current challenges, and the audience's role in delivering them. A simple one-page brief works perfectly. PepTalk speakers use this context to tailor insights that feel genuinely relevant — making your event far more impactful.

Can event entertainers customise their act for my company or industry?

Yes! Most event entertainers are happy to tailor their act to your brand, industry, or theme. From weaving in company jokes to incorporating your branding into their performance, personalisation makes all the difference. PepTalk's entertainers specialise in bespoke experiences that feel made just for your audience.