Director of BBC Symphony Orchestra & Chorus and BBC Singers to step down
Florence Lockheart
Monday, March 28, 2022
Having spent 23 years in the role, Paul Hughes' last day with the BBC will be the first night of the Proms.
Paul Hughes, director of BBC Symphony Orchestra & Chorus and BBC Singers, has announced his intention to step down after 23 years in the role.
His last day in the role will be the first night of the 2022 Proms (15 July). The BBC has not yet appointed a new director for the Orchestra, Chorus and Singers but has stated that ‘arrangements to find Paul’s successor will be announced in due course.’
Alan Davey, controller of BBC Radio 3, Proms and Orchestras and Choirs said: ‘Throughout Paul’s tenure at the BBC, he has worked with colleagues to create a culture where musicians can explore what music can do, to the delight of audiences all over the world. We will miss him – his humour, his endless ideas and above all his desire for marvellous things to happen.’
Hughes began his career in arts administration as chief executive of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra for 3 years from 1993 – 1996, before taking his current role in 1999. He is an honorary fellow of Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, having graduated from the college in 1978, and is a board member for both the governors at Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the London Contemporary Opera.
Hughes said: ‘It has been the greatest privilege of my life to be the custodian of these great ensembles, and the greatest pleasure to work with such a dedicated, hard-working team of management, production and musician colleagues.’
You can find out more about the BBC Symphony Orchestra & Chorus here.
You can find out more about the BBC Singers here.
