The search and auditions are over: Symphony Nova Scotia has named the orchestra’s new music director.
Holly Mathieson will start the job in January.
“Holly Mathieson is a spectacular musician, a passionate communicator, and a collaborative, highly experienced conductor,” said Nancy Barteaux, chair of Symphony Nova Scotia’s board of directors, in a release.
"She shares deeply in our orchestra’s commitment to artistic excellence and community connection and we know she will become a vital part of our province’s rich musical life.”
Mathieson was born in New Zealand but now based in Scotland. She has conducted orchestras including London Symphony Orchestra, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and many others.
Mathieson and her husband Jon Hargreaves co-direct Scotland’s Nevis Ensemble, which aims to take music out into isolated and marginalized communities.
“The arts are a crucial part of our human experience, no matter on which side of the footlights we sit – they help us reflect on what it means to be human, to co-operate, and to individuate,” Mathieson said in the release. “They challenge our assumptions and prejudices, and give voice to the experiences and emotions that we find it difficult to express in words.”
Mathieson will have a three-year contract and her first performance will be on Oct. 29.
