{"id":9460,"date":"2026-05-18T06:28:17","date_gmt":"2026-05-18T06:28:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/empire-music.net\/index.php\/2026\/05\/18\/giedre-slekyte-appointed-as-new-music-director-of-the-royal-scottish-national-orchestra\/"},"modified":"2026-05-18T06:28:17","modified_gmt":"2026-05-18T06:28:17","slug":"giedre-slekyte-appointed-as-new-music-director-of-the-royal-scottish-national-orchestra","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/empire-music.net\/index.php\/2026\/05\/18\/giedre-slekyte-appointed-as-new-music-director-of-the-royal-scottish-national-orchestra\/","title":{"rendered":"Giedr\u0117 \u0160lekyt\u0117 Appointed as New Music Director of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO) has announced the appointment of Giedr\u0117 \u0160lekyt\u0117 as its new Music Director, commencing with the 2027\/28 season. This significant appointment marks a new chapter for one of Scotland’s most celebrated orchestral institutions, following a period of intense scrutiny and anticipation. \u0160lekyt\u0117, a conductor rapidly ascending the international classical music scene, will succeed Thomas S\u00f8nderg\u00e5rd, who will transition to the newly established role of RSNO Music Director Emeritus after nearly two decades of distinguished service.<\/p>\n

A Rising Star Takes the Baton<\/h3>\n

\u0160lekyt\u0117’s tenure with the RSNO has been marked by a series of highly acclaimed performances during the 2025-26 season. These guest appearances not only showcased her exceptional musicality and command of the orchestra but also clearly resonated with the musicians, critics, and audiences alike, laying the groundwork for this consequential decision. Her ability to connect with the ensemble and elicit powerful, nuanced performances has been a recurring theme in reviews of her recent engagements. The RSNO’s selection process, which often involves extensive evaluation over multiple seasons, suggests a deep and mutual understanding has been forged between \u0160lekyt\u0117 and the orchestra.<\/p>\n

A Rigorous Path to the Podium<\/h3>\n

Giedr\u0117 \u0160lekyt\u0117\u2019s journey to the helm of a major international orchestra is underpinned by a robust musical education and a consistent demonstration of talent on the global stage. Her foundational musical studies began at the prestigious M.K. \u010ciurlionis National Art School in Vilnius, Lithuania, an institution renowned for nurturing young artistic talent. This was followed by advanced conducting studies at three esteemed European institutions: the University of Music and Performing Arts in Graz, Austria; the University of Music and Theatre in Leipzig, Germany; and the Zurich University of the Arts in Switzerland.<\/p>\n

Her burgeoning talent was recognized early on in significant international competitions. In 2015, she was a finalist in the highly competitive Young Conductors Award at the Salzburg Festival, a platform that has launched the careers of many leading conductors. In the same year, she was also a prize winner at the Malko International Young Conductors Competition in Copenhagen, Denmark, further solidifying her reputation as a conductor of exceptional promise. These accolades provided critical international exposure and validation of her skills.<\/p>\n

A Wealth of Experience and Acclaim<\/h3>\n

Prior to her appointment with the RSNO, \u0160lekyt\u0117 has accumulated a significant and diverse range of professional experience. She has served as Principal Conductor of the Klagenfurt City Theater in Austria, a role that demands a strong grasp of operatic repertoire and the ability to lead both operatic productions and orchestral concerts. Additionally, she held the position of Principal Guest Conductor of the Bruckner Orchestra Linz, further honing her orchestral leadership and repertoire development skills.<\/p>\n

Her guest conducting engagements have seen her lead some of the world’s most prestigious opera houses, including the Wiener Staatsoper in Vienna, the Royal Opera House in London, and Staatsoper Berlin. These high-profile appearances demonstrate her capacity to work with world-class artists and ensembles in demanding operatic environments, a skill that often translates to refined orchestral direction. Her experience spans a broad spectrum of symphonic and operatic works, suggesting a versatile artistic vision.<\/p>\n

\u0160lekyt\u0117’s Vision for the RSNO<\/h3>\n

In a statement released by the RSNO, Giedr\u0117 \u0160lekyt\u0117 expressed her enthusiasm for the new role and her initial impressions of the orchestra. "I got to know the RSNO as an orchestra of musical excellence but also curiosity, versatility, open-mindedness and great energy," she stated. "Lots of exciting concert programmes and recordings are in the planning, and I can\u2019t wait to join the RSNO family, grow together and inspire audiences in Scotland and beyond."<\/p>\n

\"Giedr\u0117<\/figure>\n

This statement highlights key aspects of her artistic philosophy. The emphasis on "curiosity, versatility, open-mindedness and great energy" suggests a desire to explore a wide-ranging repertoire, embrace new artistic challenges, and foster a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere within the orchestra. Her ambition to "inspire audiences in Scotland and beyond" indicates a commitment to both local engagement and broader international reach for the RSNO. The mention of "exciting concert programmes and recordings" points towards a forward-thinking approach to programming and the continued development of the RSNO’s recorded legacy.<\/p>\n

A Legacy of Leadership: Thomas S\u00f8nderg\u00e5rd’s Enduring Influence<\/h3>\n

The appointment of \u0160lekyt\u0117 also marks the conclusion of Thomas S\u00f8nderg\u00e5rd’s tenure as Music Director. S\u00f8nderg\u00e5rd has been at the helm of the RSNO for nearly two decades, a significant period that has seen the orchestra flourish artistically and financially. His leadership has been characterized by a strong commitment to core symphonic repertoire, as well as a willingness to explore contemporary works and champion Scottish composers.<\/p>\n

The establishment of the Music Director Emeritus position for S\u00f8nderg\u00e5rd is a testament to the enduring respect and appreciation the RSNO holds for his contributions. This role will allow him to maintain a connection with the orchestra, likely through select conducting engagements and continued mentorship, ensuring a smooth transition and preserving the institutional knowledge and artistic direction he has cultivated. His nearly 20-year tenure is a notable achievement in the often-transient world of orchestral music leadership, providing a stable and consistent artistic vision for the RSNO. During his time, the RSNO has undertaken significant international tours, released numerous critically acclaimed recordings, and maintained a high profile in the UK and beyond.<\/p>\n

Contextualizing the Appointment: Trends in Orchestral Leadership<\/h3>\n

The appointment of Giedr\u0117 \u0160lekyt\u0117 aligns with a broader trend in classical music towards appointing younger, dynamic conductors who are adept at navigating the evolving landscape of the arts. There has been a notable increase in female conductors taking up leadership positions in major orchestras worldwide. This shift reflects a growing recognition of talent and a broader commitment to diversity and inclusion within the industry.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, the emphasis on "curiosity" and "versatility" in \u0160lekyt\u0117’s statement reflects the contemporary demands placed upon orchestral music directors. Beyond programming established masterpieces, there is an expectation to engage with new music, collaborate with artists from diverse genres, and connect with a wider, more diverse audience. The RSNO’s choice suggests they are looking for a leader who can both uphold tradition and drive innovation.<\/p>\n

Implications for the RSNO and Scottish Music<\/h3>\n

\u0160lekyt\u0117’s appointment carries significant implications for the RSNO and the wider cultural landscape of Scotland. Her international profile and established connections within the classical music world are likely to enhance the orchestra’s global standing, potentially leading to more international touring opportunities and high-profile collaborations. Her experience in opera, while not a primary focus for the RSNO, often imbues a conductor with a strong sense of dramatic pacing and vocal phrasing, which can enrich symphonic performance.<\/p>\n

The focus on "growth" and "inspiration" suggests an ambition to expand the RSNO’s reach within Scotland, potentially through innovative outreach programs, educational initiatives, and performances in diverse venues. The commitment to recordings indicates a continued investment in the RSNO’s discography, which serves as a crucial archive of its artistic achievements and a means of reaching audiences worldwide.<\/p>\n

The transition from a long-serving Music Director to a new, dynamic leader is a pivotal moment for any orchestra. The RSNO’s thoughtful approach, culminating in the selection of a conductor with a proven track record and a clear vision, suggests a strong foundation for future success. The coming seasons will undoubtedly reveal the full scope of \u0160lekyt\u0117’s impact as she begins to shape the artistic direction of this venerable institution. The anticipation for the 2027\/28 season is palpable, as the RSNO prepares to embark on a new era under the baton of Giedr\u0117 \u0160lekyt\u0117.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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