The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra has announced the appointment of Antony Hermus as its next Chief Conductor, beginning in September 2027.

Hermus will succeed Ryan Wigglesworth following his fifth season in the role.

Hermus will complete his tenure as Chief Conductor of the Belgian National Orchestra this summer to become Conductor Laureate for the 26-27 season. He has also conducted the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, the Danish National Symphony, Barcelona Symphony and Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Hermus also conducts extensively in opera houses across Europe and is Principal Guest Conductor of Opera North. Earlier this season, he made his debut with Finnish National Opera.

In a statement, Hermus said, “I am incredibly excited to step into this new chapter as Chief Conductor of the extraordinary BBC SSO. Behind their phenomenal playing is a group of deeply human, curious and fearless musicians, and it is exactly that spirit that makes me so excited to become part of this family. From our very first recording to our latest concerts together, I felt a deep connection, mutual trust and freedom in the music-making. That openness, imagination and shared commitment feel like the perfect recipe for creating powerful musical experiences that truly stay with our audiences, in Scotland and far beyond.”

Dominic Parker, director of the BBC Scottish Symphony added, “Antony brings a palpable sense of energy and deep musical insight to every project. From Glasgow to Inverness, audiences have already had a taste of the electric atmosphere he creates in concert. From the very first collaboration almost seven years ago, he has shown a natural affinity with our musicians and there’s plenty to look forward to in this new chapter, with musical adventures on and off the beaten track.”

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