New chief executive starts at Derby-based orchestra

A new chief executive has started work at Derby-based professional orchestra Sinfonia Viva, which this year celebrates its 40th anniversary.

Lucy Galliard has taken up the post at Sinfonia Viva after arriving from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, which she joined in 2014 as director of learning and participation.

She previously led the department responsible for the CBSO’s three symphonic choruses, CBSO Youth Orchestra and all of the CBSO’s education and outreach programmes.

She developed a range of programmes for local communities, schools and young musicians; providing opportunities for orchestral musicians to share their creativity and passion for music making with new audiences.

These programmes enabled people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to access and benefit from engagement with live music across a wide spectrum of formats and venues.

She said: “I have joined Sinfonia Viva as chief executive at an exciting time both for the orchestra and for the city as a whole as we continue our bid to be the City of Culture 2025.

“In this, Sinfonia Viva’s 40th anniversary year, I am proud to have joined a much-loved and creative orchestra that is committed to making high quality music accessible to all across the region and beyond.

“I applaud the vision behind Derby’s City of Culture 2025 bid and the inclusive approach that has been taken to look at culture in its widest form.

“The objectives of spearheading culture-led regeneration both in terms of economic impact and to address inequalities to improve wellbeing, life opportunities and social mobility closely mirror the ethos and values of Sinfonia Viva, which has been a key part of the city’s cultural offer for many years.

“There are still many challenges ahead for the whole arts sector and our wider communities, but thanks to Viva’s reputation for innovation and excellence, I am confident that the orchestra has a bright future ahead.”

Sinfonia Viva chair of trustees Tony Davis said: “After a rigorous recruitment process and a high calibre field of candidates, we are delighted to have appointed Lucy as our new chief executive and her arrival heralds an exciting new chapter for the organisation.

“Lucy’s extensive skills and experience will enable Viva to further build on our solid foundations as a much-loved and diverse orchestra.”

Lucy recently wrote a piece for Marketing Derby’s Big Read series of features.

To read her contribution click here.