The Academy of St Martin in the Fields (ASMF) in partnership with BBC Radio 3 announces pianist Julius Asal as the inaugural ASMF BBC New Generation Associate. Continuing its long tradition of supporting young artists, the ASMF will offer one BBC New Generation Artist each season the unique opportunity to direct the orchestra as a concerto soloist, creating ambitious and collaborative performances that transcend the more traditional conductor-led model. The selected artist will receive coaching and mentoring from ASMF Principal Artist Murray Perahia, culminating in a concert at the orchestra’s historic home, St Martin in the Fields, where ASMF is Principal Orchestral Partner, broadcast on BBC Radio 3. More information on this concert will be announced soon.
Tim Davy, Executive Director of Performance & Planning at ASMF said:
“The Academy of St Martin in the Fields has a long tradition of championing amazing artists at the early stages of their career, from our founder Sir Neville Marriner recording current ASMF Music Director Joshua Bell’s first album with him, and performing and recording with a teenage Julia Fischer, to welcoming award-winning artists such as Anastasia Kobekina and Timothy Ridout to perform with the orchestra this season. There are numerous artists that ASMF has had the pleasure to make music with who have gone on to enjoy flourishing international careers and long-standing artistic partnerships with ASMF. We are thrilled to be continuing this tradition, and offering these exceptional young artists the opportunity to make music in this collaborative manner for which ASMF is so well-known, through this exciting new partnership with the BBC New Generation Artist scheme, as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.”
Emma Bloxham, BBC Radio 3 Commissioning Editor, Live Music said:
“It has been 25 years since Radio 3 began supporting the development of outstanding young artists with a dedicated scheme, and it’s a privilege to witness the continuing evolution of the NGAs’ careers. Our distinguished list of alumni now numbers well over 150, the vast majority of whom are major players on the international music scene and very much part of our ever-expanding BBC NGA family. I’m sure audiences will share in the excitement as we celebrate this milestone year, showcasing the history of the scheme through wonderful performances and strengthening our connections with partners across the UK.”
Marking the scheme’s 25th anniversary, BBC Radio 3 presents a day of special programming on Monday 3 March, celebrating current and former NGAs with live and specially recorded music.
