Sir James MacMillan is set to take on the role of Composer-in-Residence with the Dresden Philharmonie for the 2025-26 season.

The U.S. portion of this residency will launch with a week-long celebration of MacMillan’s choral compositions, arranged by Philip Brunelle and VocalEssence. Highlights include the debut of “Haec Dies” on April 4, 2025, alongside a special all-MacMillan concert featuring the University of Minnesota Singers and Orchestra. This event, scheduled for April 6 at Ordway Concert Hall, will present the U.S. premiere of “The Sun Danced” and a performance of “Seven Last Words from the Cross.”

In an official statement, MacMillan expressed his excitement: “Being appointed Composer in Residence at the Dresden Philharmonie is a true privilege. I’ve enjoyed a long friendship and professional connection with Sir Donald Runnicles, who has delivered remarkable interpretations of my work in Scotland and beyond. I’m eager to see how he’ll bring my compositions to life in his new position, and I’m thrilled to collaborate directly with the Orchestra and choirs.”

Additionally, the residency will extend to the U.K., where his second violin concerto will be featured.

The Dresden Philharmonie plans to showcase MacMillan’s diverse portfolio throughout the season, blending his contemporary style with their rich orchestral tradition. In Germany, audiences can anticipate performances that highlight his innovative approach to sacred and orchestral music, with Sir Donald Runnicles conducting several of these works. MacMillan has also hinted at new compositions in development, tailored specifically for the Dresden musicians, which promise to deepen the artistic collaboration. Meanwhile, the U.K. performances of the second violin concerto are expected to draw significant attention, further cementing his reputation as one of today’s leading composers. This transatlantic residency underscores MacMillan’s global influence and his ability to connect with ensembles and listeners across continents.