Left-right: Bill Chandler, Adam Szabo

Left-right: Bill Chandler, Adam Szabo

Photo: (Adam Szabo) Phil Sharp

Changing Faces

New Directors at BBC Symphony Orchestra and BBC Philharmonic

Arts Professional
2 min read

BILL CHANDLER will become Director of BBC Symphony Orchestra & Chorus, and ADAM SZABO has been appointed Director at BBC Philharmonic.

Chandler assumes his post in December, joining from BBC Concert Orchestra. Originally from the USA, he was a violinist in the Houston Symphony before becoming Associate Leader at Royal Scottish National Orchestra.

"It’s a delight to be working with yet more exceptional BBC musicians," Chandler commented, "[bringing] this ensemble’s work to the widest possible audience and continuing to champion the best of orchestral music."

Meanwhile, Szabo will begin as Director of the Philharmonic in February of next year. 

Originally an orchestral cellist with experience at the BBC Philharmonic, Szabo founded the Manchester Collective with RAKHI SINGH in 2016, where he is now Artistic Director and Chief Executive. 

The ensemble performs contemporary music, classical masterpieces and staged work in spaces from concert halls and festivals to warehouses and nightclubs. 

“Nothing compares to the experience of hearing a symphony orchestra at full throttle, and at their best, the Philharmonic is unmatched by any group in the country," Szabo said. 

"My work at Manchester Collective has been about creating radical experiences for audiences through live music.

"I can’t wait to bring that spirit to the BBC Philharmonic – working with these world-class players to tell unique and powerful musical stories.”

Head of Orchestras and Choirs SIMON WEBB said the BBC is "committed to bringing world-class classical music to the widest possible audiences". 

"I am thrilled that the BBC Symphony Orchestra & Chorus and the BBC Philharmonic will be led by Directors who are passionate about the role music and musicians play in society, both have served their previous ensembles so brilliantly, with creativity and innovation at the fore."

Replacing Chandler as Director at BBC Concert Orchestra on an interim basis is CAROLYN HENDRY, current Concerts and Planning Manager and a member of the Orchestra’s Senior Management Team.