Mark has held the position of Principal Guest Conductor of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO) since 2021, and will become the ensemble's Chief Conductor for the start of the 2024/25 season. He is the first British conductor to hold this role in over 60 years. Mark graduated from the Academy in Conducting in 1989, and has since established himself as a leading conductor, recognised for his outstanding musicianship, extraordinary interpretations and breadth of repertoire.
Chloé will take over Mark's previous role of Principal Guest Conductor this coming autumn. Chloé studied viola at the Academy, graduating in 2014, and was appointed the BSO's Taki Alsop Fellow in 2019 by former Chief Conductor Marin Alsop. She made her debut with the BSO in 2022 and has built global recognition as a conductor for her commanding and intuitive approach, with regular appearances in Europe, USA and Australia.
Whilst studying viola at the Academy, I was constantly playing for the conducting classes whenever I could, and of course playing in many symphonic concerts with conductors Marin Alsop, Sir Mark Elder and many others. These were exciting experiences that gave me a big boost to find the trajectory of my conducting career.'
Chloé van Soeterstède
The Academy would like to congratulate both Mark and Chloé on their brilliant new roles at the BSO.