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24 June 2013, 11:49
The Royal Scottish National Orchestra has appointed French-Canadian Jean-Claude Picard as its new Assistant Conductor, succeeding the outgoing Christian Kluxen.
Taking up the two-year post, Picard (who is currently resident in Switzerland) beat an international range of 162 top applicants, spanning five continents and 28 countries.
Picard's role will see him conduct several RSNO concerts throughout their concert seasons, as well as taking part in the orchestra's outreach projects in communities throughout Scotland.
The French-Canadian will receive mentoring from the RSNO's Music Director Peter Oundjian as well as player-mentors from the orchestra itself.
Picard himself commented: "I am pleased to be joining the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and look forward to working with Peter Oundjian, Thomas Søndergård, guest conductors, and the orchestra’s fine musicians. I am excited to be moving to Scotland and getting to better know its people and culture."
Peter Oundjian said of Picard's appointment: "We received applications from many talented individuals but Jean-Claude shone through as the clear winner."
Picard is himself an accomplished flautist, having held posts with Orchestra de la Suisse Romande and the Bergen Philharmonic, and has been a professional conductor since 2007.