Edward Gardner set to take the reins at the start of the 2021 season
By Megan Westberg
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British conductor Edward Gardner will soon have his name added to a distinguished list of London Philharmonic Orchestra conductors, including Adrian Boult and Bernard Haitink; current principal conductor Vladimir Jurowski, will become conductor emeritus. Gardner will be the first British principal conductor to head the LPO since the late 1960s.
Gardner’s initial contract is for five years, and commits him to working with the LPO for at least ten weeks a year. He is currently chief conductor of the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, guest conducts prestigious ensembles throughout the world, and has worked with the LPO on numerous occasions throughout his career.
Says Gardner in a statement: “I’m thrilled to have been appointed principal conductor of the LPO. I worked with the orchestra early in my career and I was quite overwhelmed by the brilliance and virtuosity of the musicians. Returning to the orchestra recently I’ve felt a sense of pleasure and privilege working with this inspiring group of musicians and relished the passion and hunger the LPO brings to performance. I’m looking forward to our collaboration with huge anticipation and excitement.”