Donald Runnicles has extended his contract as chief conductor of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra (BBC SSO) until 2015, it was announced today (28 September).
Runnicles (right) first worked with the orchestra in 2001 and became its chief conductor in 2009. He has conducted the BBC SSO at the Proms – premiering Robin Holloway’s Fifth Concerto for Orchestra earlier this year – and the Edinburgh International Festival.
Following the announcement, Runnicles said: ‘Each time I rejoin this remarkable orchestra, I am struck and delighted by their extraordinary passion and commitment… I am honoured and happy to renew our association and to build on the foundation we began laying just two seasons ago.’
Donald Runnicles will conduct the Scottish premiere of James MacMillan’s St John Passion with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra on 29 September at City Halls, Glasgow.
Elizabeth Davis