Alpesh Chauhan is CBSO’s First Conducting Fellow
RNCM postgraduate conductor Alpesh Chauhan has been appointed the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra’s first Conducting Fellow.
Alpesh, aged 23, is currently studying for an MMus in Solo Performance (Conducting) with Clark Rundell after joining the RNCM as an undergraduate cellist in 2008. The yearlong position means that he will now gain access to some of the world’s best conductors, artists and musicians, as he works alongside CBSO Musical Director Andris Nelsons.
Talking of the Fellowship, Alpesh, who was born in Birmingham, said: ‘I am very excited at the announcement of this prestigious post with the CBSO and to be the first person to take it up. Not only is it a total joy and thrill to listen to the CBSO – both in rehearsals and performances – but it also serves greatly in my own development as a young conductor…I feel extremely privileged to hold this position of learning, developing and working alongside my home team!’
Alpesh has a long association with the CBSO. In 2005 he joined its Youth Orchestra, quickly becoming principal Cellist, and in 2007 he participated in conducting masterclasses as part of the Youth Orchestra Academy with Associate Conductor Michael Seal. Now, in addition to his studies, he conducts the Bournville String Orchestra and is Assistant Conductor of Birmingham Schools’ Symphony Orchestra.
CBSO chief executive Stephen Maddock said: ‘The CBSO has a long-standing reputation for discovering and developing young conductors including current Music Director Andris Nelsons, Associate Conductor Mike Seal and previous Music Directors Sir Simon Rattle and Sakari Oramo. The conducting fellowship is the latest initiative by the CBSO to offer outstanding opportunities to young professionals wishing to work with one of the best orchestras in the world.
‘We’re thrilled that Alpesh is the first person to be offered and to take up this new role that we hope, will in turn, inspire a whole new generation of talented and passionate music professionals.’
3 December 2013
