Garsington Opera has named Ben Weston as its next Executive Director, beginning November 2025. A seasoned cultural leader with more than 25 years’ experience in classical music broadcasting and production, Weston has delivered award-winning programming for international broadcasters and arts organisations. A former Executive Producer of the BBC Proms and the BBC’s coverage of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Concert at Buckingham Palace, he brings a proven record of creative leadership, strategic vision and collaboration. Weston succeeds Nicky Creed and will work alongside Artistic Director Douglas Boyd to guide the company into its next chapter.
The Independent Society of Musicians (ISM) has announced saxophonist and broadcaster Jess Gillam MBE as its President-Elect. She will serve as ISM President for the 2026–27 term, succeeding cellist Gabriella Swallow, with opera singer Nicky Spence continuing as Past President. A trailblazer for her instrument and one of the most dynamic voices in British music, Gillam became the first saxophonist to reach the finals of BBC Young Musician and the youngest soloist to perform at the Last Night of the Proms. Alongside her international performing career, she is known for her work as a broadcaster and advocate for the power of music to inspire and connect.Gillam joins the ISM Presidential Trio at a pivotal time for the profession, as the organisation continues to champion the rights and livelihoods of musicians across the UK under the leadership of Chief Executive Deborah Annetts.
The Cliburn has elected Michelle Marlow as Chairman of its Board of Directors. A children’s author, speech language pathologist and long-time community leader, Marlow has served on the Cliburn Board since 2014 and as Vice Chairman since 2022. Her appointment marks the continuation of a near 30-year association with the organisation, which began in 1995 through her volunteer work with the Junior League of Fort Worth. Marlow succeeds Jeffrey B. King, who has chaired the Board since 2017, overseeing two Van Cliburn International Piano Competitions and major expansions in the Cliburn’s educational and international programmes.
Joe Hisaishi has been appointed Composer-in-Residence with The Philadelphia Orchestra for the 2026–27 season, following his sold-out debut with the orchestra in June 2025. The acclaimed Japanese composer, conductor and pianist will create a world premiere commission, record a major commercial release, curate a contemporary music series, and mentor composition students. Hisaishi will also conduct the orchestra, including the spring 2027 world premiere of his new Piano Concerto for Alice Sara Ott.
