(Photo credit: David Kelly)

Queensland Symphony Orchestra has extended the contract of Chief Conductor Umberto Clerici until the end of 2027.

The conductor took over the position of Chief Conductor in January 2023. Among the major highlights of his tenure are a touring program and a performance of Mozart’s Mass at St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

“I want to continue to stretch the orchestra’s abilities and artistic scope, extending the musicians’ participation toward an even more engaged, energetic and passionate playing,” Clerici said in an official press release. “At the same time, I want to continue offering a wide range of musical styles to our audience. We are one of the most impactful arts organizations in a state that is growing rapidly and we have to be at the forefront of this evolution, continuing to excel and innovate.”

Clerici had a 20-plus-year career as a cellist and orchestral musician before shifting to conducting. He debuted as a maestro with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra in 2018 before becoming the Chief Conductor of the Queensland Orchestra. He has also led such ensembles as the New Zealand and Dunedin Symphony Orchestras as well as Christchurch Symphony Orchestra. He has also collaborated with Opera Queensland.