Angela Dixon to become RPS chair

The Royal Philharmonic Society’s (RPS) Board of Trustees has today announced the appointment of Saffron Hall chief executive Angela Dixon to the role of Chair. Effective from 22 May, Dixon succeeds Wigmore Hall director John Gilhooly, who has been chair of the society since 2010.

Dixon becomes the first woman in the Society’s history to fulfil the role of chair. She brings to her new role experience 14 years of programming experience as head of music at the Barbican, as well as over a decade as chief executive of Saffron Hall in Essex. She will build on the legacy of Wigmore Hall artistic and executive director John Gilhooly, who joined the RPS board in 2007, before spending 14 years in the role of chair.

John Gilhooly says: ‘Through my years chairing the RPS, much has changed in classical music and society at large. As the world lurches from one challenge to another, music will fortify us through anything, so long as we invest the care, resource and imagination in ensuring it can prosper. I am grateful to everyone who has helped us to do this at the RPS. I will remain a devoted friend and Member of the RPS, and I am delighted to pass the reins to Angela who is such an inspirational colleague to so many of us in music.’

Born in London, Dixon studied music at the University of London before going on to work in the field of marketing and market research. She moved back into the music industry to tour orchestras before becoming classical music programmer then head of music at the Barbican Centre. In 2016 she was awarded the ABO/Classical Music award for Concert Hall Manager of the Year. She has been a member of the RPS Board in the role of honorary secretary since 2020.

Dixon said: ‘This is a turbulent time for the arts and music in particular; the Society must continue to advocate for all of the possibilities and positive outcomes music can have for communities. I am committed to supporting James Murphy and his excellent colleagues, working with the Board and Council, and connecting with our Members, comprising all those who love classical music: musicians, audiences, and administrators. The Society is indebted to John for his dedication, advocacy and care. He has navigated the RPS through some very challenging times with his thoughtful and effective leadership, the positive impact of which will be felt for considerable time to come. I will strive to continue the momentum he has set in train.’