Alexander Shelley to Become Principal Conductor of National Symphony Orchestra Ireland

(Credit: Curtis Perry) The National Symphony Orchestra Ireland has named Alexander Shelley as its Principal Conductor. Shelley’s initial tenure will last three seasons, commencing in September 2026. In his first season, Shelley, who is currently Principal Associate Conductor of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Artistic and Music Director of Artis-Naples, will lead seven projects. In the meantime, he will assume {…}

Sep 24, 2025

Q & A: Alexander Shelley & Joel Ivany on What Makes Opera a Vital Part of Canada’s Vibrant Culture

(Photo: Alexander Shelley © Rémi Thériault / Joel Ivany © Taylor Long) OperaWire recently attended Canada’s National Arts Centre (NAC) for their National Arts Centre Orchestra (NACO) semi-staged production of Puccini’s “Tosca.” The day after their opening night performance, OperaWire was invited to sit down with the Music Director and Conductor of NACO, Alexander Shelley, and the Artistic Director of Edmonton {…}

Sep 18, 2025

Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra 2025-26 Review: Tosca

(Photo: Curtis Perry, Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra) Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra presented a semi-staged production of Puccini’s “Tosca,” in Salle Southam Hall, on Sept. 10, 2025 in celebration of this year’s season opening, marking the tenth season for Alexander Shelley as Music Director and Conductor. The evening was full of exciting musical moments by the orchestra and leading {…}

Nov 14, 2024

Pacific Symphony Appoints Next Artistic Director

Pacific Symphony has named Alexander Shelley as its next artistic director. Shelley, who has served as Music Director of the National Arts Centre Orchestra in Ottawa, commences his tenure during the 2026-27 season and will be the third person to take on the role, following Carl St. Clair, who becomes Music Director Laureate in 2025-26. Shelley’s initial term will be {…}