Violinist Julian Rachlin Appointed Principal Guest Conductor of Royal Northern Sinfonia

It has been announced today that Lithuanian-born violin virtuoso Julian Rachlin has been appointed Principal Guest Conductor of the UK's Royal Northern Sinfonia.

“Rachlin has always been a very special musician, one whose virtuosity is matched by a searching intellect – he is a thinking musician as well as an instinctive one, qualities that every conductor needs,” the Orchestra's General Manager, Anthony Sargent has said.

“I am thrilled to be working so closely with such a dynamic orchestra,” Rachlin, 40, has said, “... I can’t wait to see what exciting opportunities and projects lie ahead!”

A protege of eminent pedagogue Boris Kuschnir, aged just 14 Julian Rachlin became the youngest-ever soloist to perform with the Vienna Philharmonic.

As a conductor, he has led, among others, the Czech Philharmonic, the Israel Philharmonic, Camerata Salzburg and the Academy of St Martin in the Fields.

Rachlin's appointment follows that of pianist Lars Vogt – who will join the orchestra as Music Director for its 2015/2016 season.