Zöe Beyers has been appointed music director and Sarah Brandwood-Spencer has been appointed associate director
The UK’s Northern Chamber Orchestra (NCO) has announced the appointment of two violinists to artistic leadership roles: Zöe Beyers as music director and Sarah Brandwood-Spencer as associate director.
Both leaders have had extensive leadership experience throughout their careers. Beyers was appointed leader of the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra in 2020 and is principal artist and leader of the English Symphony Orchestra. She appears regularly as a guest leader with numerous other orchestras, including the Hallé, RLPO, BBC Symphony, CBSO, Philharmonia and the Scottish Chamber Orchestra.
Brandwood-Spencer has performed worldwide as principal and soloist with the European Union Chamber Orchestra. She was previously principal violinist with the Hallé and performs as guest principal with many of the UK’s foremost orchestras.
’I am thrilled to join the Northern Chamber Orchestra at this pivotal time,’ commented Beyers. ’Together, we will explore new artistic horizons and engage with audiences in innovative ways.’
’It’s an incredible opportunity to work alongside Zöe and the talented musicians of the orchestra,’ said Brandwood-Spencer. ’I look forward to contributing to the orchestra’s ongoing success and helping to foster a deeper connection with our audiences and participants.’
Both violinists mentioned that their professional paths had crossed many times and had admired each other’s work. ’We are thrilled to have been offered the opportunity to work closely and create more memorable musical experiences together,’ they said.
The NCO’s season will commence on 28 September 2024 with Brandwood-Spencer directing the opening concert of Mozart, while Beyers will lead the orchestra’s second concert of Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto with Jennifer Pike on 2 November.
The NCO was established in 1967 and presents its annual series in Macclesfield, as well as serving communities in Chester and Wirral. The orchestra contributes to opera productions in the annual Buxton Festival and embarks on musical journeys across the north of England.
Read: Like a symphony for violin and orchestra: Zoë Beyers on the Elgar Violin Concerto
Read: Colburn School Academy and Conservatory appoint violinist as director and professor
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