Hallé announces new appointments

Manchester-based orchestra, The Hallé, has announced the appointment of Roberto Ruisi to the role of leader of the orchestra. The orchestra has also appointed Dobrinka Tabakova to the role of artist in residence for the Hallé’s 2022-23 season.

A graduate of the Royal College of Music, Ruisi was last year appointed as leader of Sinfonia Cymru. In his new role Ruisi will have use of a 1695 Stradivarius violin, known as the ‘Lincoln Strad’, wned by the City of Lincoln and on loan to the leader of the Hallé. Ruisi will make his debut as leader next month in a performance conducted by the Hallé’s music director, Sir Mark Elder.

Roberto Ruisi ©Tom Stephens

Sir Mark said: ‘These are two thrilling appointments, both of which will enrich our great orchestra. The search has been long and extensive and the clear choice was Roberto Ruisi in whom we have a hugely talented violinist and leader whose youth and dynamism will lead this great orchestra’s pioneering spirit in the years to come… Dobrinka Tabakova’s music has already been recognised around the world, and her ability to connect audiences and musicians with her compositions is remarkable.’

Throughout her career Tabakova has been commissioned by the Royal Philharmonic Society, BBC Radio 3 and the European Broadcasting Union and has previously held the role of composer in residence with the BBC Concert Orchestra. Her debut album was nominated for a Grammy in 2014 and, in her new role, she will release a recording on the Hallé’s own label.

Tabakova said: ‘I’m thrilled to be working with The Hallé on so many and such varied programmes. Being featured as artist in residence allows for a deeper connection both with the musicians and with the audience. I’ve already had a great experience with Manchester audiences over the past year, so to be able to build on this is wonderful.’