Domingo Hindoyan extends Liverpool Philharmonic contract
Chief conductor Domingo Hindoyan has revealed he is extending his contract with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic for a further four years.
The 43-year-old Venezuelan maestro made the announcement at the Philharmonic Hall last night at the start of the final concert of the 2022-23 season.
It means he will remain chief conductor with the Phil until at least 2028.
Hindoyan took over the baton from former chief conductor Vasily Petrenko in 2021 and has just completed his second season with the orchestra. He initially signed a four-year contract.
Speaking about his decision to commit a further four years to music-making at Hope Street he described the Phil as a 'diamond' and said that after two years he was still enjoying the feeling of a honeymoon with the orchestra.
He said: “I’m so looking forward to continuing my journey with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. The deep musicality and dedication of the musicians inspire me every day, and together, we’ve achieved remarkable milestones.
“In the next five years, I hope to continue building on our unique sound, encourage new, eclectic and diverse repertoire, and to enjoy the warmth, enthusiasm and open-mindedness of the Liverpool audience – something that always brings me immense joy.”
Royal Liverpool Philharmonic chief executive Michael Eakin added: “Domingo Hindoyan's artistic leadership has been instrumental in enhancing the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra's worldwide reputation.
“We’re thrilled to extend his contract, as it ensures the continued growth and development of our orchestra. Domingo's immense talent and unwavering dedication make him an invaluable asset to our organisation.”
Along with his continued work with the orchestra, Hindoyan’s plans also include expanding singing and choral activity across Liverpool, in addition to bringing world-class operatic performances to the Philharmonic Hall.
He will also continue to support and nurture the Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company and its In Harmony programme - to encourage children and young people to engage in classical music and collective music-making. In the coming season, he will conduct the Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra for a performance of José Pablo Moncayo’s Huapango.
Last night's concert also saw a rousing farewell to the Phil's principal percussionist Graham Johns who is retiring after 40 years with the orchestra.
Johns took centre stage alongside soloist Pacho Flores in a closing performance of Alberto Ginastera's Four Dances from Estancia, and the Venezualan trumpet virtuoso then joined the percussion section for an unexpected extra piece.
In between, Michael Eakin paid tribute to Johns' dedication and talent, and unveiled a new cloche to add to the Phil's collection of Forever Bells, this one cast with Johns' name on it.
The new Philharmonic season open on September 21. More details HERE