Hallé Orchestra appoints second leader

The Hallé has announced the appointment of violinist Emily Davis to the role of leader of the Hallé Orchestra. Davis will hold the position jointly with current leader Roberto Ruisi as the Orchestra launches its 2024/25 season.

Emily will make her debut as leader later this year in an October concert featuring Stravinsky’s The Firebird alongside Tan Dun’s Violin Concerto: Fire Ritual, conducted by the orchestra’s new principal conductor Kahchun Wong. The concert is part of The Hallé’s new Rush Hour series, presented an hour of music in the early evening on weekdays.

Davis said: ‘Joining the Hallé as Leader is an immensely joyful moment for me. Having attended Chetham’s School of Music as a teenager, I have a great love for both Manchester and the Hallé. I spent many formative moments watching this wonderful orchestra at The Bridgewater Hall, and am very proud to now be able to call it my new musical home.’

Davis brings to her new role experience gained in concertmaster roles with orchestras including the Stavanger Symphony Orchestra and the European Union Youth Orchestra. She has also performed as guest leader with orchestras including the Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra, Singapore Symphony Orchestra, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Odense Symphony Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Royal Northern Sinfonia and the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra. Davis is also founder of classical-folk ensemble Thirteen North.

Ruisi, with whom Davis will share the role of leader, said: ‘Emily's appointment is a testament to the Hallé's commitment of bringing world-class artistry to Manchester. I am absolutely delighted to be sharing this special role alongside her, as we venture into an exciting new era of music-making for this wonderful orchestra.’