Singaporean conductor Kah Chun Wong has been appointed as the new Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor of the Hallé Orchestra in Manchester, taking over from the esteemed Sir Mark Elder, who has been the orchestra's Principal Conductor since 1999. Wong will assume his role at the start of the 2024/25 season for an initial period of five years.
In addition to his new position with the Hallé, Kahchun Wong has also been named as the Chief Conductor of the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra starting from the 2023/24 season. He will also serve as the Principal Guest Conductor of the Dresdner Philharmonie. Previously, Wong had a successful tenure as the Chief Conductor of the Nürnberger Symphoniker.
Over the past few seasons, Kahchun Wong has made notable debuts with prestigious orchestras such as the New York Philharmonic, the Czech Philharmonic, and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic. He has also performed with renowned ensembles including the Cleveland Orchestra, the Detroit Symphony, and the Konzerthausorchester Berlin.
Expressing his gratitude, Wong stated, "I am deeply honored to assume the role of Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor of the Hallé. This orchestra has always impressed me with its exquisite sound and rich tradition." He added, "I feel privileged to become part of Manchester's vibrant cultural scene and to uphold the exceptional musical standards set by Sir Mark Elder and our distinguished predecessors. I eagerly anticipate collaborating with the visionary team at the Hallé as we shape our artistic journey together."
Sir Mark Elder, reflecting on his time with the orchestra, remarked, "Working with these exceptional musicians and performing for our wonderful audience has been the focal point of my life for nearly twenty-five years. I am delighted to continue nurturing these two relationships as Conductor Emeritus, and I eagerly look forward to many exciting concerts in the years ahead. I extend my heartfelt wishes for Kahchun's success, and I am confident that the people of Manchester will warmly embrace him."
