Alex Prior, 24, is Edmonton Symphony Orchestra's new conductor
CBC News | Posted: October 27, 2016 3:01 PM | Last Updated: October 27, 2016
'He’s a remarkable musician, he’s gregarious and exceptionally well-spoken, and a lot of fun'
The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra has a new conductor and he's only 24.
London-born Alex Prior will take on his new role as chief conductor for the 2017/2018 season.
In a news release, Prior said he has developed a chemistry with the symphony and Edmonton concert goers over several guest appearances since 2014.
"The players are among the best in North America," he said. "The Winspear Centre is among the best venues on the continent.
"That intangible feeling of making excellent music with like-minded artists in a wondrous place; it's what a conductor lives for, isn't it?"
Prior has worked with orchestras from Cologne to Boston to St. Petersburg.
Winspear Centre CEO Annemarie Petrov describes Prior as one of a kind.
"He's a remarkable musician, he's gregarious and exceptionally well-spoken, and a lot of fun," she said in the release.
"Edmonton music lovers will look at this era with Alex with fondness and wonder, just as they look at Bill Eddins' tenure here."
Eddins, 51, is leaving the orchestra after 12 years.