Ilan Volkov has been Chief Conductor of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra since January 2003, having first conducted the orchestra in 1998. He is a passionate advocate of contemporary composers, and he plays an important role in the orchestra’s continuing commitment to new music. In addition, his interpretations of the Classical and Romantic repertory have been widely praised for their lucidity of texture and structure, rhythmic vitality and depth of insight. In September 2009 he will assume his new role as the orchestra’s Principal Guest Conductor. His final appearance as Chief Conductor taking place at the BBC Proms in London, on Saturday 15 August.