The ensemble is the Australian Chamber Orchestra’s affiliated youth orchestra
Finnish violinist Pekka Kuusisto has been appointed artistic director of the ACO Collective for three years from 2016. The ensemble combines Australian Chamber Orchestra players with talented young Australian musicians at the outset of their careers.
‘This is a big appointment for the ACO, and for the future of music in Australia, and we confidently entrust Pekka with these responsibilities,’ said ACO artistic director Richard Tognetti, who will work closely with Kuusisto to develop the Collective’s profile through inventive programming.
Kuusisto will also become the newest artistic partner of the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra in Minnesota from September 2016, joining current associates, pianist Jeremy Denk, clarinettist Martin Fröst and violinists Patricia Kopatchinskaja and Thomas Zehetmair.
Known for his experimental approach and unorthodox interpretations, Kuusisto regularly works with contemporary composers and frequently directs ensembles from the violin. He was The Strad’s July 2012 cover star, speaking about his adventures in sound and taking risks in concert.
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