Christian Thielemann picks up baton as director of Berlin State Opera from old rival

The German conductor will take over from Daniel Barenboim who announced his resignation in January

The German conductor Christian Thielemann is to pick up the baton from the world renowned maestro and pianist Daniel Barenboim as general music director of Berlin's State Opera.

In a move that shocked the classical music world, Barenboim, 80, resigned from the job in January after 30 years at the helm, citing a long-term neurological illness. On Wednesday, as the identity of his successor was revealed, he heaped praise on Thielemann, calling him an extraordinary musical talent".