Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra appoints new music director
The Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra is delighted to announce the appointment of Jack Lovell-Huckle as its new Music Director, effective September 2026.
Following an extensive two-year international search that attracted 109 applicants, the Orchestra is thrilled to confirm Jack Lovell-Huckle as the successful candidate. His appointment marks a significant milestone, as he becomes only the sixth Music Director in the Orchestra’s 85-year history.
Fresh from a highly acclaimed tour of China with The Hallé, Jack Lovell-Huckle is currently Assistant Conductor of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO). He brings a wealth of experience, artistic insight, and an exciting vision for the future of the Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra.
Speaking about his appointment, Jack said: “I am thrilled and honoured to be chosen as the next Music Director of the Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra. The dedication, ambition and enthusiasm of every member was evident from my first rehearsal with them through to the final note of the concert."
Michael Lloyd’s tireless and expert leadership of the BPO is an inspiration and it will be a privilege to continue his great work. I am really looking forward to building on an incredibly rich history of exciting programmes, both for home audiences and the BPO’s vital and impressive touring venues. Whilst I know several of the members of the BPO from my work with other orchestras in the area, I cannot wait to get to know them and all the musicians better as we make incredible music together.”
Jack succeeds Michael Lloyd, who steps down after an extraordinary 32-year tenure as Music Director. Michael’s leadership has been central to the Orchestra’s artistic identity and success for more than three decades.
Michael Lloyd’s final concert will take place in June at the magnificent Birmingham Town Hall, where he will lead the Orchestra in a powerful and fitting farewell performance of Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, “Resurrection.”
The Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra looks forward with great excitement to welcoming Jack Lovell-Huckle and embarking on a new era of artistic growth, while celebrating and honouring the profound contribution of Michael Lloyd.
