KBS Symphony Orchestra appoints Myung-whun Chung as its tenth Music Director

With an initial contract set from 2026 until 2030 – when the conductor will be 77 – the appointment represents the culmination of a relationship lasting more than three decades. 

Michael Tilson Thomas, the American conductor, composer and educator, has died at the age of 81.

Helen Shute will begin her new role at English National Opera in November, as the company works to solidify its northern home in Manchester.

Karin Bergmann will oversee the 2026 Festival in the absence of Markus Hinterhäuser, the former Artistic Director who was dismissed in March. 

The LA Phil's new post, beginning in the 2026–27 season, will complement the position of Creative Director in the absence of a Music Director after the departure of Gustavo Dudamel.

Turnage’s opera Festen was among the works and musicians honoured at the 2026 RPS Awards, who also include Peter Moore, Elizabeth Alker, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and the Kirkaldy Orchestral Society.