The BBC Philharmonic has revealed that Joshua Weilerstein is to be its next chief conductor. The 39-year-old American will be making himself at home in Manchester in September 2028, when he takes over from John Storgårds, who will continue his long-standing relationship with the orchestra as its conductor laureate.
Who is Joshua Weilerstein?
Currently music director of the Orchestre National de Lille and chief conductor of the Aalborg Symphony Orchestra, Weilerstein – brother of cellist Alisa – has enjoyed the company of the BBC Philharmonic before, both in Manchester and at the BBC Proms, and is described by his future employers as ‘a dream signing’.
Joshua Weilerstein comments:
'I am beyond thrilled and honoured to become the next chief conductor of the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra. Ever since my first time conducting the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra nearly 10 years ago, I have felt such a strong musical connection with this wonderful orchestra. Through their curiosity, their engagement, their fantastic sense of humour, and sheer brilliant ability, I have found each and every one of our concerts and studio recordings to be so musically fulfilling and satisfying, and I count some of our performances as real highlights in my life as a conductor.'
More about the BBC Philharmonic
Founded in Manchester in 1922, the BBC Philharmonic is today an internationally recognised ensemble and counts among its former chief conductors Charles Groves, Yan Pascal Tortelier, Giannandrea Noseda, Juanjo Mena, Omer Meir Wellber and John Storgårds.
Storgårds, who joined the orchestra as principal guest conductor in 2012 before becoming chief conductor in 2022, remains in post to the end of the 2027/28 season, and thereafter becomes conductor laureate.
