About the Orchestra

The orchestra is acclaimed not only for the quality of its performances but also for its importance within its own community.

BBC National Orchestra of Wales is Orchestra-in-Residence at St David's Hall, Cardiff, and also presents a concert series at the Brangwyn Hall, Swansea. As well as international touring, it is in demand at major UK festivals and performs every year at the BBC Proms and biennially at the prestigious BBC Cardiff Singer of the World.

The work of BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales is supported by the Arts Council of Wales

Full biography of BBC National Orchestra of Wales

• Composers
• Conductors
• Players
• Chorus
• Hoddinott Hall

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  Principal Conductor: Thierry Fischer

  Thierry Fischer took up his title with BBC National Orchestra of Wales in 2006. His hallmarks are a lightness of touch and transparency of texture, allowing room for vivid characterisation.

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  Principal Guest Conductor: Jac van Steen

  Jac van Steen's relationship with BBC orchestras began in 1985 and in August 2005 he marked the formal start of his appointment as Principal Guest Conductor by conducting the BBC National Orchestra of Wales at the Proms.

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  Conductor Laureate: Tadaaki Otaka

  One of Japan's leading conductors, Tadaaki Otaka has become well known in the UK through his work with BBC National Orchestra of Wales.

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  Associate Guest Conductor: François-Xavier Roth

  François-Xavier Roth is one of the most charismatic and enterprising conductors of his generation. He started his three year term as Associate Guest Conductor for the BBC National Orchestra of Wales in 2008.

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  Principal Conductor Designate: Thomas Søndergård

  Thomas Søndergård is one of Scandinavia's finest conductors. He is currently Principal Conductor and Musical Adviser of the Norwegian Radio Orchestra and will start as Principal Conductor with BBC National Orchestra of Wales in September 2012.