Martyn Brabbins to join Malmö Symphony Orchestra as chief conductor

The Malmö Symphony Orchestra (MSO) has announced the appointment of British conductor Martyn Brabbins as its new chief conductor. Brabbins will begin his tenure in the 2025-26 season, succeeding Robert Treviño, who stepped down in 2021 to become artistic advisor with the orchestra.

Brabbins, who recently resigned as music director of the English National Opera in 2023 in protest against proposed cuts to the company’s orchestra, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His appointment follows his recent engagement with the Swedish orchestra, where he stepped in to replace Sir Andrew Davis after the conductor’s passing in April.

Erik Mikael Karlsson, CEO and artistic director of Malmö Live Konserthus, commented: “Martyn is a highly experienced conductor with an international reputation and has been a prominent figure in British musical life for decades. His clear artistic profile and modern, inclusive leadership align perfectly with the vision for the concert hall – a dynamic, international venue with strong local roots that embraces musical breadth, teamwork, and top-level artistic quality.”