Barbara Hannigan, in London for three concerts with the London Symphony Orchestra, has been named an Associate Artist, the first time the LSO has bestowed such a title on anyone. According to the LSO, 'Associate Artists are musicians with distinct influences, quality and style that add diversity and richness to the LSO, creating their own programmes in collaboration with the Orchestra and contributing to the repertoire choices for other programmes throughout the season'.

Making the announcement, the LSO's Managing Director Kathryn McDowell said 'Barbara Hannigan is a unique artist in her ability to combine conducting and singing, she is supremely gifted in both disciplines, and at the peak of her powers. Already in her performances with LSO over the last few years, she has introduced players and audiences to new works that lend themselves to her special talents. This exciting exploration of new repertoire is precisely what the LSO thrives on and the time is right to take this next step in our relationship with her.'

Hannigan herself commented that 'I am thrilled to accept this appointment, developing and performing beautiful and fascinating programmes with my colleagues at the LSO. This collaboration gives me a lot of energy and inspiration.'

Hannigan will be resident for a number of LSO concerts in the Barbican during each year and undertake some international work including a European tour in March 2023.

On Wednesday, February 23, she will sing and conduct Poulenc's La voix humaine as one of the LSO's Half Six Fix concerts and will repeat the work the following evening (at 7pm) when she will partner the Poulenc with Richard Strauss's Metamorphosen.