The London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) has revealed its new leadership, appointing John Harte as its incoming Managing Director. He will take over from Dame Kathryn McDowell, who is stepping down at the end of the summer following two decades in the prestigious role.
A Proven Leader from the Innovative Aurora Orchestra
Harte joins the LSO from the Aurora Orchestra, where he served as Chief Executive for an impressive 15 years, having taken the helm in 2009. During his tenure, he worked alongside principal conductor Nicholas Collon and creative director Jane Mitchell to transform Aurora from a startup into one of Britain's most celebrated and forward-thinking arts organisations.
His professional background is notably diverse. Before his time at Aurora, Harte worked for the British choral label Collegium and even completed a doctorate in Middle Eastern history at the prestigious School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS).
Steering a World-Class Institution into a New Era
In his new position, Harte will join a senior leadership team that includes chief conductor Sir Antonio Pappano and conductor emeritus Sir Simon Rattle. He assumes responsibility for one of the world's leading orchestras, founded in 1904.
The LSO is resident at London's Barbican Centre, staging approximately 70 concerts there each year. The orchestra also holds significant international residencies in Paris, Tokyo, and at the Aix-en-Provence festival.
Vision and Tributes for the Future
Expressing his honour at the appointment, John Harte stated: "It’s a privilege to be appointed to the MD role at a moment of such artistic and organisational strength, and I look forward to working closely with players, staff, board and collaborators to take the London Symphony Orchestra to still greater heights in the coming years."
Sarah Quinn, Chair of the LSO, praised Harte's track record: "John has led outstanding work at Aurora Orchestra, which has become a significant force in UK music in an impressively short period of time. We very much look forward to working together."
Back at Aurora, colleagues paid warm tribute to their departing leader. Nicholas Collon and Jane Mitchell said: "We are so grateful for everything John has given to Aurora; his hard-working dedication, his daring sense of ambition, and his profound humanity." Dame Liz Forgan, Chair of Aurora Trustees, confirmed the search for his successor will begin imminently.
