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Internationally renowned English conductor Roy Goodman has been appointed principal guest conductor with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra.
His appointment, a first for the orchestra, was announced last night at the APO's first concert of the year, the APN News & Media Premier Series, at Auckland Town Hall.
The ebullient Goodman, 57, wowed Auckland audiences last year when he conducted the three-concert Splendour of the Baroque series with the APO.
A specialist in early music, he is also principal guest conductor with the English Chamber Orchestra and director emeritus with the European Union Baroque Orchestra. He has directed more than 120 CDs.
His partnership with the APO will start in May and last for four weeks each year over three years, during which time he will conduct concerts, act as an international advocate for the orchestra and offer advice on its direction.
APO chief executive Barbara Glaser said: "He brings so much energy to music making. Because he's such an experienced player and conductor, he's got so many really solid ideas and ways to express himself .
"I think it is a gear shift up for the orchestra. It means someone we have got a formal relationship with, someone who's a regular collaborator and an adviser."
Herald music critic William Dart praised the appointment. "Goodman's many recordings go back to the days of vinyl; the ground they cover is awe-inspiring," said Dart.
"Not only does he have immense authority when it comes to earlier music, his wit, charm and outgoing personality made the APO's Baroque series one of the most rewarding concert experiences of the season."
APN, the Herald's owner, also announced last night that it will continue its APO sponsorship, which started in 2006, through to 2011.
