CBSO appoints director of artistic planning

The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) has today announced the appointment of Catherine Arlidge MBE as its new director of artistic planning. Arlidge’s appointment follows an extensive international search and will see her work closely with the orchestra’s players and its CEO Emma Stenning and music director Kazuki Yamada.

Arlidge's appointment in this new senior-level role builds on her long-standing relationship with the CBSO as its sub-principal second violin. Having joined the orchestra in 1990, she has built a career as a musician, educator, innovator and international speaker.

CBSO chief executive Emma Stenning said: ‘I am so happy to welcome Catherine into this vital new role. Catherine is well known to the CBSO as a longstanding member of the orchestra, and is widely respected for her transformative work at National Children’s Orchestras and her remarkable leadership voice within the sector. Her compelling vision for the CBSO’s programme and her ambition for our international life, combined with her deep understanding of the orchestra's values and her passionate commitment to Birmingham, will be invaluable as we continue to create music that connects, inspires, and brings joy to audiences everywhere.’

During her time with CBSO Arlidge has helped found Artistic Think Tank, which works to amplify the players’ voice in programming decisions, and supported the creation of concert series Centre Stage and Notelets. She is also a founding member of the music education charity, The Stringcredibles and received an MBE for services to Music Education in 2016. In 2017 she was appointed artistic and educational director of the National Children’s Orchestras of Great Britain (NCO).

Arlidge said: ‘I am thrilled to have this new opportunity to help shape the artistic vision and journey of the CBSO. Together, this incredible group of musicians and singers, passionate staff team and board, and of course Kazuki create the ingredients of something that is artistically unique and truly remarkable. I couldn’t be more excited to see where we can go together.’