Britten Sinfonia welcomes new head as leaders depart after 10-year reign

Violinist and BBC Philharmonic leader ZOË BEYERS is to step up to head Britten Sinfonia’s orchestra, with her first concerts in the role to take place as part of BBC Proms.

She takes over from JACQUELINE SHAVE and THOMAS GOULD, who together have led the East of England chamber orchestra for more than a decade.

Beyers’ debut as orchestra leader will take place on 23 August, in a BBC Proms performance at Bristol Beacon, and at Snape Maltings Concert Hall on 27 August, with featured music to include the work of Mozart, Sibelius, and Gavin Higgins.

She then returns for several further performances in early 2026, before taking on the role fully for the 2026/7 season. Shave is to make appearances as a guest director, while Gould, whose association with the orchestra has lasted some 20 years, is to step down fully in October.

Beyers, who will retain her position at BBC Philharmonic, said she was “absolutely delighted” by her appointment as leader, adding: “The orchestra’s adventurous spirit, dedication to new music and deep chamber music sensibility make it a very inspiring place to work. I’m really looking forward to this next chapter together.”