Chloe van Soeterstede and Mark Wigglesworth

Photo: Mark Allan

Changing Faces

New top team for Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra

Ruth Hogarth
2 min read

Conductors MARK WIGGLESWORTH and CHLOÉ VAN SOETERSTÈDE become Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s (BSO) new Chief Conductor and Principal Guest Conductor respectively from the start of the Orchestra’s 2024/25 season, each for a four-year term. 
 
One of the world’s leading conductors, Wigglesworth is recognised for his outstanding musicianship, extraordinary interpretations and breadth of repertoire. Having been named Principal Guest Conductor in 2021, this appointment deepens his connection with the BSO’s musicians, audience, and communities. 

Van Soeterstède is recognised globally for her commanding and intuitive approach with regular appearances in Europe, the US and Australia. A former fellow of the Taki Alsop programme in 2019-21, she builds on recent guest appearances with the BSO. 

Wigglesworth said: “The commitment the entire organisation shows to the many thousands of music lovers across the entire South West of England is inspirational and I am extremely excited to be joining [the BSO] at a time when classical music’s undeniable force for good has never been more vital to the quality of the communities we live in.”

Van Soeterstède said: “I will always remember my first concert with the BSO musicians. I am truly humbled and honoured to deepen my relationship with them, and to embark on a special journey together with our audiences in the South West of England.”
 
ANDREW FLOCKHART, Chair of the BSO added: "The appointment of Mark and Chloé is wonderful news for the BSO and its vitality in the future. The entire Board is enthusiastic about the appointments which strengthen the Orchestra's ability to bring brilliant music to audiences in communities right across the South West."

DOUGIE SCARFE OBE, Chief Executive of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, added: "Life-empowering live music is at the core of what we do, and we’re thrilled Mark and Chloé share our vision for how an orchestra can proudly serve communities in and beyond the concert hall. We can’t wait to welcome them both in their new roles this autumn.”