(© Charlie Kinross)

The Darwin Symphony Orchestra has named Richard Mills AO to the position of Artistic Director / Chief Conductor.

Mills has served as Artistic Director of such ensembles as Victorian Opera, West Australian Opera, and Adelaide Chamber Orchestra. He was also Director of the Australian Music Project for the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra and was Musica Viva’s Composer of the Year. He is also a composer of such works as “Batavia” and “Love of the Nightingale.”

“I am deeply honoured to be joining the Darwin Symphony Orchestra family. I love the DSO; this is an orchestra with a unique voice in Australia and a vital role in the cultural life of the Northern Territory. I look forward to working alongside its exceptional musicians to explore new artistic possibilities, serve the community, and shape a bold future together,” Mills said per an official press release.

He will commence his tenure during the 2026 season, taking over for Jonathan Tooby, who held the position for the past seven years.

“Darwin Symphony Orchestra has thrived under the passionate and dedicated leadership of Jonathan Tooby, and we are deeply grateful for the musical momentum he has helped build. Richard Mills AO brings a complementary skillset that will build on this strong foundation,” said Claire Kilgariff, Chair of the Darwin Symphony Orchestra’s Board, regarding Tooby’s leadership.

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