New Artistic Director for Chester Music Festival
Andrew Cornall, an executive director (orchestra, ensembles and education) of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, has been appointed artistic director of the Chester Music Festival.
Starting in January 2008, he will oversee an exciting new stage in the development of what is the city’s oldest Festival. It celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.
“I’m delighted to take on the artistic direction of the Chester Music Festival,” said Andrew. “Chester and Cheshire offer unique environments in which to stage a Music Festival. I look forward to building on the success the Festival has already achieved and to working with the City of Chester to extend its reach and reputation.”
“We are very pleased to have been able to appoint someone with Andrew’s talent and experience”, added Festival chairman Robin Wendt. “We look forward to an exciting period of development under his leadership.”
Already responsible for developing and leading the Royal Phil’s artistic policy and managing its day-to-day operations, associated ensembles and education work, Andrew will continue in that role alongside the Chester position.
Part of the Liverpool team that the Financial Times called earlier this year, “one of the most dynamic managements in the UK orchestra world’, Andrew had joined the Phil in 2004 after 25 years with the Decca Music Group where he earned an international reputation as a record producer. “Andrew’s breadth of knowledge within the music industry, from both his post at the Phil and as a producer, will be an asset to the Chester Festival,” said Eddie Thomas, Arts Council England.
“It’s excellent news that Andrew Cornall has agreed to come to Chester”, said city councillor Eric Plenderleath, executive member for Culture & Community. “His renowned experience and reputation, coupled with his proven record at the Liverpool Phil, will enhance what is already a very successful Festival.”
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Editors’ notes
Chester Music Festival is Chester’s oldest Festival celebrating its 30th year in 2007. The Festival is supported by Chester Festivals, a new umbrella organisation supported by Arts Council England and Chester City and County Councils.
Further quotes:
David Pickering, Chair of Chester Festivals said: “Andrew’s welcome appointment is a further manifestation of Chester’s higher aspiration within the arts and cultural sector. His appointment is applauded by Chester Festivals. Chester Festivals, an umbrella organisation funded by Arts Council England and the Chester City and County Councils, will support the Festivals and events of Chester, particularly the Music Festival, in working towards their full potential.”
Michael Elliott, Chief Executive of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic said: “Andrew has been a major contributor to the Liverpool Phil’s ongoing success and achievements through his knowledge and experience of the classical music and recording industries. It is a delight to me that we have been able to assist Chester Music Festival in supporting Andrew’s contribution to the Festival and we look forward to further developing our relationship through the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and its associated ensembles.”
His appointment has also been commended by key individuals within the city. MP Christine Russell said: “We are delighted to welcome Andrew Cornall to this post. We look forward to the Festival when the city will celebrate Chester’s creativity, demonstrating the best of local and international talent in the field of music in an exhilarating way. He is a very welcome addition to Chester’s cultural scene”
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