Conductor
Pola Benke is a distinguished conductor and cellist, celebrated for her innovative approach to orchestral leadership and her commitment to standardizing diverse programming in the modern symphonic repertoire. She was recently appointed Music Director of the Santa Monica Symphony and Assistant Conductor of the Pacific Symphony, continuing to build a dynamic and impactful presence across Southern California.
Previously, she served as Assistant Conductor for both the Long Beach Symphony and the Riverside Philharmonic, where she earned a reputation for her clarity, musicality, and ability to foster meaningful connections with musicians and audiences alike.
Born in Poland, Pola’s journey began with a strong foundation in performance, leading to Master’s degrees in both cello performance and orchestral conducting. Her dual expertise equips her with a rare perspective—combining the analytical skills of a conductor with the empathetic understanding of a performer.
Pola believes that orchestras should serve as a reflection of the diverse world we live in. She is a committed advocate for thoughtful, inclusive programming that honors a wide spectrum of voices—seamlessly integrating cherished masterworks with compositions by historically underrepresented artists. With a deep sensitivity to narrative and context, she curates programs that invite personal connection and collective reflection. Whether through imaginative repertoire choices, compelling storytelling, or fresh interpretive insight, Pola aims to create concert experiences that are artistically vibrant, emotionally resonant, and genuinely welcoming to all.
Her professional path has been shaped by collaborations with leading conductors and ensembles, including Neeme Järvi, Sian Edwards, and Paavo Järvi. Her participation in prestigious programs such as the Järvi Academy in Estonia, the Dartington Music Festival in England, and the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music has further refined her craft, earning her recognition as a forward-thinking and impactful conductor.
Her leadership style is marked by kindness, collaboration, and the ability to inspire musicians of all generations to perform at their best. Whether leading a large-scale symphonic work or rehearsing an intimate chamber ensemble, Pola brings energy and precision that elevates every performance.
Influenced by composers like Joseph Haydn, Krzysztof Penderecki, Jennifer Higdon, and Igor Stravinsky, Pola blends a deep respect for tradition with a spirit of curiosity and openness to new ideas. At the heart of everything she does is a love for sharing music with others.
Cellist
Pola Benke, an esteemed cellist hailing from Poland, commenced her musical journey with the cello at the tender age of eight. She debuted as a soloist with the University orchestra in 2007, rendering a captivating performance of Grave by Lutoslawski. Her quest for musical excellence led her to earn a Master’s Degree in orchestral training from The Boston Conservatory, and later, to pursue postgraduate studies under the tutelage of the acclaimed Marek Szpakiewicz in Los Angeles.
Pola's exceptional talent has earned her numerous scholarships, enabling her to study under several renowned cellists such as Dominik Polonski, Rhonda Rider, Sato Knudsen, Stanislaw Popov, Lynn Harrell, Aldo Parisot, Ko Iwasaki, and Astrid Schween. Her prowess in the realm of modern classical music has won her an invitation to perform at many prestigious music festivals across Europe and the United States, including the InterHarmony Music Festival in Germany and the Aspen Music Festival.
Pola has a rich portfolio of performances as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestra member. Her collaboration with eminent musicians in both Europe and the United States is testimony to her exceptional skill and versatility. Specializing in modern classical music, Pola has premiered and recorded numerous contemporary pieces. Her association with the world-renowned chamber orchestra, Sinfonietta Cracovia, patronized by the legendary composer Krzysztof Penderecki, has further bolstered her reputation in the music world.
In addition to her many accolades, Pola also served as the director of the International Cello Festival "Hello- Cello." Presently, Pola resides in Los Angeles, California, where she continues to enthrall audiences with her remarkable musicianship performing with local orchestras, OC Trio, Romantica Piano Quartet and a Floocello duet with a dear friend, Antonina Styczen.