The British-born violinist will lead the Perth-based orchestra from August.

The West Australian Symphony Orchestra have announced the appointment of Laurence Jackson as its new Concertmaster. Jackson appeared as guest Concertmaster with WASO in March under the baton of Principal Conductor and Artistic Adviser Asher Fisch. “I greatly enjoyed working with Laurence earlier this year,” said Fisch. “He brings with him a huge amount of experience and knowledge which will greatly benefit the Orchestra. I’m looking forward to working with him during our Brahms Festival in August and then in 2016 and beyond.”

British-born violinist Jackson attended the prestigious Chetham’s School of Music, before beginning his studies at the Royal Academy of Music in London in 1984 on a scholarship, studying with Emanuel Hurwitz, Maurice Hasson and Anne-Sophie Mutter.

From 1994 to 2006 Laurence was leader of the Maggini Quartet, touring prolifically throughout the USA, Canada and Europe. During his time with the Maggini’s he recorded some 23 discs with the quartet, winning a Gramophone Award for best Chamber Music Recording in 2001 and the Cannes Classic Award, the Diapason d’Or of the Year, in 2002.

During his orchestral career Jackson has made equally impressive achievements, appearing as Concertmaster with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, and guest leading many of Europe’s top orchestras including the London Philharmonic, Philharmonia, BBC Philharmonic, Trondheim Symphony Orchestra and Bergen Philharmonic.

Speaking of his appointment Jackson said, “WASO are a terrific orchestra, not just technically, but with a real commitment and enthusiasm for their work and with such an experienced and dynamic principal conductor as Asher at the helm, there promises to be many great experiences ahead.”

In addition to leading the orchestra from August, Jackson will also appear with the orchestra as soloist during WASO’s 2016 season, details of which will be announced on September 2.

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