AUSTRIAN musician Thomas Zehetmair has been appointed Principal Conductor and Artistic Partner of ICO for a three-year period.
In his role, Thomas is central to maintaining and extending ICO’s output, creating new and challenging repertoire which expresses ICO’s identity.
“ICO prides itself on its flexibility in artistic programming, operating an innovative and multi-layered leadership model which values collaboration and where the musician’s voice is respected and incorporated into planning. We curate and deliver versatile programming, ensuring access in regional, national, and international settings. We are delighted to welcome Thomas Zehetmair – his passion, expertise, artistic flexibility, and appeal deem him a worthy successor to Jörg Widmann” said Gerard Keenan, CEO, Irish Chamber Orchestra.
Zehetmair first performed with ICO in April 2017 with a stunning programme of works by Dvořák, Barber and Schoenberg.
In January 2020 and May 2021, he performed live streams from Limerick featuring delights by Bach, Beethoven and Deane followed by Mozart, Kinsella, and Bruckner. For his long-awaited return to live performance, he performed Mozart, Wilson & Bruckner with ICO in February 2022. He is thrilled to develop and expand his relationship with ICO.
Zehetmair added “It is most inspiring to be with this wonderful orchestra. Their desire and enthusiasm, paired with the highest level of music making, is unique. I am greatly honoured and privileged to be ICO’s principal conductor, I look most forward to everything to come!”
Irish Chamber Orchestra and Thomas Zehetmair perform MOZART & HARTMANN at University Concert Hall on Thursday December 1.
Thomas Zehetmair performs MOZART & HARTMANN on December 1.
