Canada names a British concertmaster
mainThe Vancouver Symphony Orchestra has found its next concertmaster from within its own ranks.
A year after Dale Barltrop’s return to his native Australia, the orchestra has chosen Nicholas Wright, a British violinist, from a field of 12 applicants.
Wright, who takes up the front seat immediately, studied at the Royal College of Music and played in the English Chamber Orchestra, LSO and London Philharmonic before winning an audition in Vancouver six years ago.
He says: ‘I am thrilled to accept the appointment of concertmaster of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. This is an exciting time for us, and I am looking forward to the upcoming seasons during which we will be celebrating Maestro (Bramwell) Tovey’s incredible legacy here in Vancouver as well as the orchestra’s centenary year. Since joining the VSO, I have found a constant source of inspiration in my colleagues and am fortunate to count among them some of my closest friends. Being part of this orchestra is also so special because of the enthusiastic support of our audience. Every orchestra needs the support of a great community on which to thrive, and I am proud to call this beautiful city my home.’
This is fabulous news. Nick is a very talented and dedicated musician. Worked with him a lot. London’s loss was Vancouver’s gain…
Nick was a sub-principal 1st violin in the London Symphony Orchestra. He is a very talented musician and indeed the LSO’s loss is Vancouver’s gain.