Sophie Lewis appointed as ABO Chair

The Association of British Orchestras (ABO) has today announced the appointment of Sophie Lewis to the role of chair. Lewis takes up her new role with immediate effect, succeeding ABO interim chair Jenny Jamison who resumes the role of vice-chair after nine months as CEO.

Currently CEO of the National Children's Orchestras, Lewis brings to her new role a wide range of experience in orchestral management and an understanding of the ABO’s work having been involved with the association as a director from 2013 to 2018 and through participating in the ABO/British Council Orchestral Leadership Transform Programme. Alongside Lewis’ appointment the ABO Board will also elect three nominee directors.

Lewis said: ‘I'm passionate about the brilliance and diversity of our orchestras and the difference they make to our lives every day and look forward to playing my part as the ABO Chair in supporting the future of British orchestras and classical music more widely through a period of positive change. The ABO has played a huge part in my professional development for over 20 years, and I am profoundly motivated to bring my energy and expertise to support its future alongside Judith Webster and the team, the ABO Board and its remarkable membership in my new role.’

Having joined National Children's Orchestras in 2018, Lewis is responsible for the strategic development and overall management of the charity. Before this, she spent 10 years as chief executive of Sinfonia Cymru in Wales, winning the inaugural ABO Classical Music Orchestra Manager of the Year Award for her work with the Welsh chamber orchestra. Her experience also includes roles with Welsh National Opera, Arts Council England and English National Opera.

Outgoing interim chair Jenny Jamison said: ‘I am delighted to welcome Sophie as the new Chair of the ABO and have the greatest respect for her deep understanding of orchestras, her collaborative approach and her sheer enthusiasm for the role.’