Simon Halsey has been named Choral Director and Artistic Advisor to the Oslo Philharmonic for a five-year term. His role as Artistic Advisor begins immediately, with his first project as Choral Director scheduled for September, featuring performances of Duruflé’s Requiem and Ravel’s Daphnis et Chloé Suite No. 2 under Chief Conductor Klaus Mäkelä.
Future plans include a sing-along performance of Mozart’s Requiem in March 2026, which will bring together choirs from across Europe.
Halsey described his appointment as an opportunity to contribute to the artistic work of the Oslo Philharmonic and its choir. “Norway strikes me as an exciting and motivated cultural nation, which inspires me,” he said.
Chief Conductor Klaus Mäkelä welcomed Halsey’s arrival, stating he looks forward to working with him. Oslo Philharmonic Managing Director Knut Skansen noted Halsey’s experience and commitment to choral development.
Halsey was director of the London Symphony Chorus until 2023 and has held leadership roles with various choral institutions, including the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Choruses and the Rundfunkchor Berlin. He will continue his collaborations with other ensembles alongside his work with the Oslo Philharmonic.
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