John Hird

The Hallé, numbered amongst the world’s top symphonic ensembles, continues to seek ways to enhance and refresh what it undertakes, with aspirations to provide leadership through performance standards, education, understanding and training. Founded specifically to bring music to all, we are proud to make music in our home city of Manchester and across the region as the orchestra of the North West. Our collective spirit and unique Hallé sound is renowned, not only across our nation but across the globe.  Innovation has always been central to the Hallé since its foundation in 1858 by the revolutionary Sir Charles Hallé with his central belief that music is for everyone and has the power to change lives. Hallé’s trailblazing work created a truly great orchestra and this commitment to excellence and engagement with people has been fostered and developed by other musical legends through the ages.   In its 167-year history, the Hallé has been guided by such distinguished figures as Sir Charles Hallé, Dr Hans Richter, Sir Hamilton Harty and Sir John Barbirolli. This iteration of Siemens - Hallé International Conductors Competition falls within an exciting period of historic change at the Hallé. Our 2023/24 season was Sir Mark Elder’s last as Music Director after over 20 extraordinary years of leadership. Sir Mark’s legacy is felt not only in the power and sound of the orchestra he has guided but also in the youth ensembles he founded, and in our choral family who played a central role in Sir Mark’s finale – showcasing the Hallé’s special familial structure.   Now into our 2024/25 season, with Sir Mark moving into the esteemed role of Conductor Emeritus, Kahchun Wong takes the helm as Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor. Kahchun’s arrival has been much anticipated since his electrifying debut back in spring 2023 and excitement for this new chapter at the Hallé is palpable in Manchester and beyond. 2024/25 is one of our most musically ambitious seasons to date, and