Adam Hickox chosen as Glyndebourne Sinfonia principal conductor

Glyndebourne has announced the appointment of British conductor Adam Hickox to the role of principal conductor of the Glyndebourne Sinfonia.

Formerly the Glyndebourne Tour Orchestra, the Sinfonia is Glyndebourne’s resident orchestra for its autumn programme of opera and concerts. In his new role, Hickox will lead this group of freelance players, plus members of the company’s Pit Perfect scheme in performances of a wide range of repertoire as part of the autumn seasons in 2024 and 2025

Glyndebourne artistic director Stephen Langridge said: ‘Glyndebourne is proud of its track record in nurturing and championing talented artists, especially in our autumn seasons. Adam Hickox has an innate understanding of opera as music theatre, bringing a fresh vitality that enables everyone to give their best. After an impressive run of performances of L’elisir d’amore this season, and with the exceptional creative relationship he has formed with the Glyndebourne Sinfonia, we are looking forward to many projects together in the coming years.

Hickox studied music and composition at Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, and conducting at the Royal Academy of Music. He brings to his new role experience performing with ensembles including Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Britten Sinfonia, BBC Scottish Symphony, BBC National Orchestra of Wales and Ireland’s National Symphony Orchestra. Having spent time in 2022 as assistant conductor for the Festival production of the Poulenc Double Bill, Hickox made his Glyndebourne debut this autumn.

Hickox said: ‘This appointment is a great honour. Being part of the Glyndebourne family is truly a dream come true, and I can’t wait to deepen my relationship with the fantastic orchestra and the Glyndebourne Chorus over the coming seasons. I felt an immediate click with the orchestra from the first rehearsal, and every time I step into the pit, I am excited to work with them once again.’