Adelaide Symphony Orchestra Appoints Mark Wigglesworth as Chief Conductor

The Adelaide Symphony Orchestra (ASO) is delighted to announce the appointment of Mark Wigglesworth as its next Chief Conductor, commencing January 2025 for an initial three-year term.

Known for his masterly interpretations and highly detailed performances, the former Principal Guest Conductor will perform with the ASO this September before returning in May 2025 for his inaugural performances as Chief Conductor.

Established in 1936, the ASO holds an esteemed international reputation for distinction, vitality, versatility, and innovation. As South Australia’s largest performing arts organisation, the ASO presents more than 125 concerts annually across a diverse musical spectrum. Additionally, the Orchestra provides orchestral support for esteemed institutions such as the State Opera of South Australia, performances by the Australian Ballet and is also a prominent contributor to the annual Adelaide Festival.

Mark Wigglesworth’s appointment heralds a new chapter for the ASO, as he brings a wealth of experience and accolades garnered from performances with prestigious orchestras worldwide, including the Berlin Philharmonic, London Symphony, New York Philharmonic, and Royal Concertgebouw orchestras. His recent appointment as Chief Conductor of the UK’s Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra further underscores his distinguished career.

Colin Cornish AM, Chief Executive Officer of the ASO, emphasised the significance of Wigglesworth’s appointment, stating, “With the appointment of Mark, we have the commitment of not only one of the world’s leading conductors, but also a genuine and passionate musician, to lead the ASO to new levels of artistry and connection with our community.”

Commenting on his appointment, Mark Wigglesworth expressed his enthusiasm for returning to Adelaide and collaborating with the ASO: “I have been working with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra for the last 10 years and every performance we have given together has been a truly memorable experience for me. The musicians are exceptional, as individuals and as a group, and I feel there is no limit to what we can achieve together.

“It is going to be a privilege to work in Adelaide on a regular basis and to have the opportunity to engage in the South Australian community in a more profound way. Live music brings people together at a time when we need these connections more than ever. Sharing with others the emotions that music stirs within us creates bonds of true and lasting value. To play my part in that in South Australia is something I am looking forward to enormously.”

Kate Suthers, Concertmaster of the ASO, echoed the sentiment, saying, “The role of Chief Conductor is crucial for an orchestra’s identity, and Mark is fearless in his music making. His leadership has cultivated mutual respect and trust with the musicians that I have no doubt will translate to extraordinary moments on stage.”

Minister for the Arts, Hon Andrea Michaels MP, also lauded the appointment, emphasising its significance for South Australia’s cultural landscape:

“The appointment of Mark Wigglesworth as the next Chief Conductor of the ASO is a terrific coup for South Australia. The Adelaide Symphony Orchestra is renowned for its quality of performance, flexibility, and breadth of collaborations with our major festivals, opera and theatre companies, schools, and music training institutions. As we attract international talents like Mark, South Australia solidifies its position as a global stage for musical excellence.”

Mark Wigglesworth will take the stage on September 20-21 for the ASO’s flagship concert series at Adelaide Town Hall; Symphony Series 6 – Reflection, featuring Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto and Elgar’s Symphony no 2.

For more information, visit www.aso.com.au and www.markwigglesworth.com.