About the Orchestra

The orchestra provides the backbone of the BBC Proms, and performs an annual season of concerts at the Barbican, all of which are broadcast on BBC Radio 3. Highlights in its 2012-13 Season include a focus on Sir Michael Tippett, operas by Donizetti and Ravel, and three Total Immersion days. Recently appointed Chief Conductor Designate Sakari Oramo’s first performance as Chief Conductor will be in 2013.

Full biography of the BBC Symphony Orchestra

• Conductors
• Composers
• Players
• Chorus
• How to apply

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  Chief Conductor Designate: Sakari Oramo

  Oramo made his first guest conducting appearance with the BBC Symphony Orchestra in October 2011. His first performance as Chief Conductor of the Orchestra will be at the 2013 BBC Proms, followed by four concerts in the BBC SO’s 2013-14 Barbican season.

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  Günter Wand Conducting Chair: Semyon Bychkov

  Bychkov has been appointed to this newly created position after conducting the BBC SO on numerous occasions at both the Barbican and BBC Proms. Memorable performances include Shostakovich Symphony No. 11, Mahler Symphony No. 6 and Verdi’s Requiem.

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  Conductor Laureate: Jiří Bîlohlávek

  Jiří Bîlohlávek was Chief Conductor of the BBC SO from 2006-2012, after which he became Conductor Laureate. In 2012 the BBC SO won a Gramophone award for live recordings of the complete Martinů symphonies, conducted by Jiří Bîlohlávek.

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  Conductor Laureate: Sir Andrew Davis

  Sir Andrew Davis was Chief Conductor of the BBC SO from 1989-2000. As Conductor Laureate, he makes regular appearances with the orchestra at the Barbican and the BBC Proms.