Future Direction of Symphonic and Operatic Music Guided by Martyn Brabbins
Acclaimed conductor Martyn Brabbins prepares for his new roles as Chief Conductor of the Malmö Symphony Orchestra and the Symphony Orchestra of India, set to commence in the 2025/26 season. A prestigious figure in classical music spanning three decades, Brabbins has attained prominence for his versatility, artistic integrity, and deep commitment to music.
Brabbins' illustrious career includes conducting hundreds of world premieres, championing British composers, and leading renowned orchestras and operas. His recent appointments mark another significant milestone, as he takes the helm of both renowned ensembles.
Known for his collaborative approach, Brabbins emphasizes consultation with management teams, artistic oversight committees, and musicians in shaping the artistic direction of each orchestra. With a strong sense of ownership among the Malmö Symphony Orchestra's members and the unique model of the Symphony Orchestra of India, Brabbins seeks to elevate standards, cultivate artistic ambitions, and inspire innovation.
Brabbins' passion for British music stems from his background in composition, fostering a deep respect for the craft. In interpreting new works, he approaches them with curiosity and humility, seeking to decipher composers' intentions and share their artistic world.
With nearly 150 recordings across a broad repertoire, Brabbins selects projects that bring attention to lesser-known but deserving music. Looking ahead, he aims to leverage partnerships and vision to create impactful recordings for both Malmö and the SOI.
Brabbins' tenure as Music Director of the English National Opera (2016-2023) was marked by ground-breaking performances, such as his swansong with David Alden's Peter Grimes, a highlight of his operatic leadership. As Prince Consort Professor of Conducting at the Royal College of Music and Visiting Professor at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Brabbins shares his insights and philosophies with the next generation.
Looking forward, Brabbins remains committed to continuous improvement, seeking to convey the transformative power of music to audiences and colleagues alike. Reflecting on his humble origins, he strives to give back to a discipline that has provided him with opportunities that might have otherwise gone unrealized.
As the Chief Conductor of both the Malmö Symphony Orchestra and the Symphony Orchestra of India, Brabbins aims to use his career development in education and self-development to foster artistic ambitions and inspire innovation among the orchestras' members. In his spare time, Brabbins continues to express his passion for music by exploring various compositions and collaborating with musicians to bring lesser-known, deserving works to the forefront, all while expanding his entertainment repertoire with ground-breaking operatic performances.
