BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra appoints principal guest conductor

BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra (BBC SSO) has announced the appointment of Delyana Lazarova to the role of principal guest conductor. Lazarova joins the orchestra in September 2025, the beginning of the orchestra’s 90^th anniversary concert season, succeeding previous principal guest conductor Ilan Volkov who took up the role of Creative Partner in August 2024.

Lazarova’s new appointment expands on the relationship she has built with the BBC SSO since her debut with the orchestra in March 2024. In her new role she will work closely with the BBC SSO team on its programme of concerts, recordings, and broadcasts on BBC Radio 3 and Radio Scotland.

BBC SSO director Dominic Parker said: ‘From her very first rehearsal with the BBC SSO, it was clear that Delyana was going to make waves. An accomplished violinist and conductor, she brings exceptional musical intelligence to every programme, shaping rehearsals and concerts that are both inspiring and illuminating. With a keen sense of storytelling in her programming and an impressive breadth of repertoire, audiences can look forward to an enriching and enjoyable musical journey with her on the BBC SSO podium.’

Having studied conducting at the Zürcher Hochschule der Künste, Lazarova has masters degrees in both conducting and violin. Throughout her career she has collaborated with orchestras including the Philharmonia Orchestra, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Orchestre National de France and Utah Symphony, where she was appointed Principal Guest Conductor in December 2024. Her upcoming A former assistant to Sir Mark Elder at the Hallé from 2020-2023, Lazarova makes her debuts this season include the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Minnesota Orchestra.

Lazarova said: ‘From our very first rehearsal, I was impressed by the artistry and exceptional range of expression of the BBC SSO musicians, whose commitment and passion for the music captured my heart from the start. I eagerly look forward to this exciting journey together, as we explore a diverse repertoire - discovering hidden gems, as well as bringing fresh perspectives to some of the most beloved masterpieces. I cannot wait to reconnect with the wonderful members of the orchestra, hear their beautiful playing once again, and create inspiring music together.’