Royal Northern Sinfonia appoints Maria Włoszczowska as its new leader

The Royal Northern Sinfonia has appointed Maria Włoszczowska as its new leader. The 29-year-old Polish violinist succeeds Bradley Creswick, who led the RNS for over 25 years.

First Prize and Audience Prize winner at the XXI Leipzig International Johann Sebastian Bach Competition in 2018, Włoszczowska - who also won numerous prizes at the XV International Henryk Wieniawski Violin Competition in 2016 - performs as a soloist, chamber musician and guest concertmaster for orchestras all over the world.

During the 2020/21 season she led the Chamber Orchestra of Europe, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and RNS, and performed violin concertos by Sibelius and Bruch. She also gave performances at international chamber music festivals including Musikdorf Ernen in Switzerland, IMS Prussia Cove, Festival Resonances in Belgium, North York Moors Festival, Lewes Chamber Music Festival, and chamber concerts in Scotland with members of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra.

Read Maria Włoszczowska wins 1st Prize in 2018 Bach Competition

Her first concert as official leader of the RNS will be the season-opening concert on Saturday 18 September at Sage Gateshead.

On Włoszczowska’s appointment, Abigail Pogson, Managing Director of Sage Gateshead said: ‘I am really thrilled that Maria is joining us as the next Leader of Royal Northern Sinfonia. She is an incredibly talented musician and leader who has already developed a strong relationship with the orchestra over her appearances this season. It is an exciting new era for Royal Northern Sinfonia with next generation leadership in Dinis and Maria. As we gradually move back towards live performances, I’m looking forward to hearing the many concerts and projects which Dinis, Maria and Royal Northern Sinfonia will create together in coming months and years.’

Włoszczowska said: ‘I am thrilled to be joining the wonderful RNS as Leader. I was immediately taken by the player’s openness, trust, willingness to explore and always go the extra mile – an attitude that creates endless potential and makes them a world-class ensemble. I’m delighted to be able to contribute to what is undoubtedly a very exciting future for the group. I’m also keen to get to know the audiences around the region and make this stunning part of the UK my home.’