During this time he will write three works, two of which are being commissioned by BBC Radio 3 on behalf of the orchestra.

The first of the commissions, the Oboe Concerto, was premiered by the orchestra at Theatr Brycheiniog in April 2006. The second will be premiered during the 2007 BBC Proms season at the Royal Albert Hall, London and the final piece planned is for the 2008 season.

The appointment will complement the existing relationship between the orchestra and the composer in association Michael Berkeley, and will consolidate the orchestra's commitment to performing contemporary music and developing the talent of new composers.

The appointment marks a milestone in the orchestra's successful partnership with Guto Puw, developed over a number of years.

Guto's previous commission by BBC Radio 3 for BBC NOW received high critical praise. Reservoirs, a work inspired by the poem of the same title by RS Thomas, was premiered in May 2004 at St David's Hall, Cardiff and received its second performance at the Vale of Glamorgan Festival in September 2005. In May 2005 Reservoirs was nominated for a Royal Philharmonic Society Award for large scale composition.

Guto, a young composer based in North Wales, has made an important impact on Welsh music in recent years. After studying at the University of Wales Bangor, he received an Arts Council of Wales Bursary to study with John Metcalf. He has since developed a successful musical career with many of his works being performed at festivals and concerts by leading orchestras, artists and ensembles.