Sinfonia Viva appoints new Chief Executive

Sinfonia Viva has appointed Lucy Galliard to the role of chief executive. She will succeed Peter Helps MBE who retired from the role in April 2021, having been at the helm of the Derby-based Orchestra since 1995.

Galliard joins Sinfonia Viva from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), where she had been director of learning and participation for over seven years, previously leading the department responsible for the CBSO’s symphonic choruses, youth orchestra and education and outreach programmes.

Sinfonia Viva chair of trustees Tony Davis said: ‘Lucy’s extensive skills and experience will enable Viva to further build on our solid foundations as a much-loved and diverse orchestra.’

Galliard studied piano, trumpet and cello before completing a music degree at the University of York, and an MA in Film Music Studies at the University of Leeds. Galliard joined Live Music Now Yorkshire & Lincolnshire in 2003, progressing to become the Acting Executive Director in 2012.

Galliard commented: ‘I have joined Sinfonia Viva as Chief Executive at an exciting time both for the Orchestra and for the city as a whole as we continue our bid to be the City of Culture 2025… There are still many challenges ahead for the whole arts sector and our wider communities, but thanks to Viva’s reputation for innovation and excellence, I am confident that the orchestra has a bright future ahead.’

Founded in 1982, Sinfonia Viva is a Derby-based charity and orchestra that works to bring its wider range of music to the widest possible audience through performances across the UK and on radio as well as through BSL interpretation, hearing loops, sensory equipment and multimedia performances.

You can find out more about Sinfonia Viva here.