Don Challen, Chair of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, today announced that Eivind Aadland, TSO Chief Conductor and Artistic Director, will continue at the helm of the orchestra until the end of 2026.

“Since taking up the role of Chief Conductor and Artistic Director at the start of the 2020 season, Eivind Aadland has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the TSO, so we are delighted that he will remain with us for a further four years.

“The start of Eivind’s tenure coincided with the early days of the pandemic but the TSO, nonetheless, has thrived under his artistic leadership. His presentation of a Beethoven symphony cycle across 2021-22 was a particular highlight.

“Eivind has been a perfect fit with the TSO, and his ability to become such an integral part of the orchestra these past few years speaks to his generosity, grace and good humour.

“Our musicians and audiences continue to benefit from his artistic vision, and we are excited to be able to work together to bring our plans for the future – notably our 10-year ‘Our Cathedral’ vision – to fruition over the next stage of his tenure as Chief Conductor and Artistic Director.”

Maestro Aadland, a Norwegian citizen, has worked extensively with major orchestras throughout Europe – Scandinavia in particular – as well as Australia and Asia. He first conducted the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra in 2005 and, as he explains, is thrilled to deepen his relationship with the orchestra.

“I have a long connection with the TSO – I have been coming to Tasmania for nearly two decades – and from the very first time I worked with this orchestra, I was impressed by the quality of playing and the commitment of the musicians, who are fully involved in every rehearsal and every performance, bringing artistry and expertise to all that they do.

“Since taking up the role of Chief Conductor and Artistic Director in 2020, I, together with the musicians, have focussed on finessing the orchestra’s sound. We’ve been working on making the tonal range larger, expanding the dynamic possibilities, attending to the finer points of phrasing, and paying attention to minute details and nuances.

“As we move into the next four years, my priorities are to build on the strengths that we’ve established thus far and to develop our working relationship so that the communication flow between conductor and orchestra becomes seamless.”

News of Eivind Aadland remaining as Chief Conductor and Artistic Director of the TSO for a further four years has been received enthusiastically by the 47-piece orchestra.

Speaking on behalf of the musicians, Concertmaster Emma McGrath said that “Eivind has a natural and warm rapport with the musicians, and his love of music is palpable and inspiring.

“It’s always exciting to work with him – he instinctively understands how to draw the best from each and every player on stage and he holds us to the highest artistic standards.

“He’s a beautiful communicator and collaborator!”