Photo: Russell Hart
Sir Mark Elder has renewed his contract as music director of the Hallé in Manchester until at least 2020.
Sir Mark, who took up the post in 2000, will become the longest serving music director of any major English symphony orchestra.
The Hallé’s recording of Elgar’s oratorio The Apostles was named Recording of the Year at the 2013 BBC Music Magazine Awards.
Speaking to Richard Morrison in the Awards issue of BBC Music Magazine, Sir Mark said of his relationship with the orchestra: ‘The way I like my music-making – very rhythmic yet full of heart – suits the orchestra… When I go elsewhere – and I work with many famous orchestras – of course I hear fantastic players or fantastic sections. But it’s not often that I find an orchestra that is as smooth, as blended, as the Hallé, where every section contributes equally to the whole.’
During Sir Mark’s tenure the orchestra has also been named Best Ensemble by the Royal Philharmonic Society and won two South Bank Show Awards.
In a statement following the announcement, Sir Mark said: ‘I am, of course, delighted to continue making music with my wonderful orchestra. The Hallé, together with its loyal audience, holds a special place in my heart, and I am excited at the thought of what we will achieve as the years go by.’
For more information, visit the Hallé’s website.