BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra - About The Orchestra

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Biography

Formed in December 1935 by Scottish composer and conductor Ian Whyte, the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra is recognised as one of the UK's leading orchestras. The winner of several awards, including a Royal Philharmonic Society Award and four Gramophone Awards, its wide repertoire and flexible approach means it can perform complex contemporary pieces alongside major symphonic works.

The orchestra has a busy broadcasting schedule on BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio Scotland and BBC Television and also records commercially.

Full biography of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra

Chief Conductor: Donald Runnicles

Edinburgh-born Donald Runnicles is Chief Conductor of the BBC SSO, having taken up the post on 20 September 2009.

Full biography of Donald Runnicles
Principal Guest Conductor: Ilan Volkov

Ilan Volkov is the Principal Guest Conductor of the BBC SSO having previously held the post of Chief Conductor until September 2009.

Full biography of Ilan Volkov
Associate Guest Conductor: Andrew Manze

Eminent British musician Andrew Manze is the orchestra's Associate Guest Conductor.

Full biography of Andrew Manze

Artist-in-Association: Matthias Pintscher

The BBC SSO's first Artist-in-Association is New York based composer and conductor Matthias Pintscher.

Full biography of Matthias Pintscher