Barbara Hannigan to Lead the ISO
The Iceland Symphony Orchestra (ISO) has announced the appointment of Barbara Hannigan as its Chief Conductor and Artistic Director. Hannigan’s initial term will span three seasons, beginning in August 2026. This marks Hannigan’s first role as Chief Conductor, though she will continue in her current positions as Principal Guest Conductor of the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra and Associate Artist with the London Symphony Orchestra.
Hannigan first conducted the ISO in the spring of 2022 during the Reykjavík Arts Festival, where she performed a selection of works she is renowned for, often combining singing with conducting. These included Charles Ives’ The Unanswered Question, Arnold Schönberg’s Verklärte Nacht, Alban Berg’s Suite from Lulu, and George Gershwin’s Girl Crazy Suite (arranged by Bill Elliott).
In April of this year, Hannigan led the ISO in performances of Poulenc’s La voix humaine and Strauss’ Metamorphosen. As Chief Conductor, she will work with the orchestra for at least six subscription weeks per season, in addition to touring and recording. Hannigan will next perform with the ISO in June 2025, featuring a program that includes Copland’s Music for the Theatre, Haydn’s Symphony No. 90, and Kurt Weill’s Youkali & Lost in the Stars (arranged by Bill Elliott).
Reflecting on her new role, Hannigan said, “Working with the ISO, I have felt the desire and possibility, for the first time, to consider a position as Chief Conductor. It is a matter of creative chemistry and collective timing that drives us to embark on this new path together.”
Lára Sóley Jóhannsdóttir, the orchestra’s managing director, expressed her excitement, stating, “Barbara Hannigan is one of a kind, and we can’t wait to work more with such an outstanding artist. Performing the innovative programs she is renowned for and being part of her unique expression will significantly influence the orchestra, our audiences, and Icelandic cultural life in the years to come. The first time she walked on stage to conduct our orchestra, we all felt something exceptional and unique in the air.”
For those in Glendale, CA interested in expanding their musical skills, music classes such as violin and piano classes are available, offering opportunities for aspiring musicians to learn and grow. Hannigan’s remarkable journey and influence in the music world can serve as an inspiration to students attending these music classes in Glendale, CA, and piano classes in Los Angeles. Whether you are taking violin classes in Glendale or seeking piano classes in Los Angeles, Hannigan’s achievements highlight the transformative power of dedication and passion for music.
Barbara Hannigan was honored as Gramophone’s Artist of the Year in 2022.
