Nathalie Stutzmann, the conductor and singer, has been named Music Director of Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, for an initial four year term beginning next autumn.

She succeeds Robert Spano, who is stepping down after two decades in the post, and in doing so becomes only the second female appointed to a similar role at a major US orchestra. Earlier this year we reported that Stutzmann had been appointed Principal Guest Conductor of the Philadelphia Orchestra, and she also holds the post of Chief Conductor of Norway’s Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra.

Speaking of her appointment, Stutzmann said: 'The devoted commitment to music of the ASO musicians touches my heart. They have beautiful open minds, and they love to work hard, to be challenged and to take the necessary risks to serve the music and bring the highest levels of emotion to their audience. There is a special chemistry between the orchestra and me that we all immediately recognised, and this is the perfect time for us to deepen our relationship.'

Stutzmann praised the work of her predecessor, describing the orchestra as 'in top shape, and I look forward to working with this incredible ensemble to chart new artistic territory.' Forthcoming projects include performances of Mozart’s Requiem in March 2022, and Bach’s St Matthew Passion during the following season.

Stutzmann, as well as a conductor, is an acclaimed contralto: in March, Gramophone named her recording - called 'Contralto' - an Editor's Choice. Recorded with Orfeo 55, her own (now disbanded) ensemble, and released on Erato, Richard Wigmore wrote: 'Stutzmann brings resplendent vocalism and passionate conviction to each of her chosen arias, abetted by responsive and, where apt, combustible playing from her crack ensemble.'