Music director starts work at world’s worst-run orchestra

The Orchestre de la Suisse Romande has blown millions of francs over the past four years, compensating four managing directors who were unfairly sacked by a dilettant board.

That has not stopped Jonathan Nott from assuming office last night as music director.

He said: ‘It is with huge anticipation and pleasure that I take up this appointment with the distinguished Orchestre de la Suisse Romande. Why anticipation? Because nothing can give a greater sense of freedom to a Music Director, about to embark on a long journey with his orchestra, than the total commitment of his players. So, I enter this relationship knowing that I have their overwhelming support to work long and hard together, exploring familiar and new repertoire, and ensuring that this fine ensemble is recognised as one of the foremost in the orchestral scene.’

We hope he didn’t write that all by himself.