Catherine Arlidge MBE has been appointed as the new Director of Artistic Planning for the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO). A member of the CBSO since 1990 and former Artistic and Educational Director of the National Children’s Orchestras of Great Britain, Arlidge brings a wealth of experience as a musician, educator and innovator to her new role. Working closely with CEO Emma Stenning and Music Director Kazuki Yamada, she will help shape the CBSO’s artistic vision, enhance its artistic profile and broaden its audience base.
Robert McGrath has been appointed as President and CEO of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (CSO). McGrath, who has spent the past 13 years with the CSO in senior leadership roles, begins his tenure next month and will succeed Jonathan Martin, who announced his retirement last November.
Honens has appointed Amanda Smith as its new President & CEO, bringing her innovative vision and strategic leadership to the organisation as it prepares for the 11th edition of the Honens International Piano Competition in October 2025. Smith, who previously served as Honens’ Director
of Marketing & Communications and interim President & CEO, is a passionate advocate for accessibility in the arts and serves on the board of Xenia Concerts Inc.
Gary Ginstling has been appointed as the new Executive Director and CEO of the Houston Symphony. Succeeding John Mangum, who now leads the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Ginstling brings over 25 years of leadership experience with major American orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic and National Symphony Orchestra. In his new role, Ginstling will oversee the Symphony’s extensive concert schedule, community engagement programmes and education initiatives, as well as guide the $60 million renovation of Jesse H. Jones Hall for the Performing Arts.
The London Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) has announced that renowned British composer Sir George Benjamin will become its next Composer-in-Residence, succeeding Tania León in September 2025. In this role, Benjamin will contribute to rehearsals and oversee performances of his compositions, conduct an LPO concert featuring one of his compositions in the 2025-26 season and serve as a mentor to the five participants selected annually for the LPO Young Composers programme.
Crispin Hunt, the multi-platinum selling songwriter and producer, has been elected as the new President of the PRS Members’ Council. Succeeding Michelle Escoffery, Hunt will serve as a leading advocate for PRS’s community of songwriters, composers and music publishers, focusing on ensuring world-class support and services for its members. Hunt brings a deep understanding of the music industry and a passion for advocating for songwriters’ rights. He has previously served as a Writer Director on the PRS Members’ Council since 2019 and as Chair of the UK’s Ivors Academy.
