Professor JohannesFritzsch,of Griffith University’sQueensland Conservatorium,has been named Principal Conductor and Artistic Adviser oftheQueensland Symphony Orchestra(QSO).

The German-born, Australian-based conductor was Chief Conductor of the QSO from 2008until2014and since 2015 has been Conductor Laureate.

“I feelhonouredand excited to take the helm of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra again,an ensemble I got to know intimately during my time as Chief Conductor,” he said.

“I enjoy working with this outstanding group of musicians— it feels like coming home.”

Photo: Peter Wallis

MaestroFritzschhas been a Professor of Opera and Orchestral Studies at the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University since 2019 and hesaid students wouldreap thebenefitsfrom his new appointment.

“The QSO and the Conservatorium are next doorneighboursat South Bank — there are already strong connections between the two institutions,” he said.

“I’m sure our students will benefit from greater access.I’m keen to bring in some of our conducting studentsfor internships and get students along to rehearsals.”

MaestroFritzsch will oversee several major concerts as part of the Queensland Conservatorium 2021 Season, including Beethoven’s Eroica Symphony, Mahler’s 5th Symphony and this year’s mainstage opera production, Kurt Weill’s Street Scene.

Associate Professor Peter Morris

Acting Director of the Queensland Conservatorium,Associate Professor Peter Morris,said he was delighted that MaestroFritzschhad been chosen to lead the state’s premier orchestra.

“MaestroFritzschhas had a long relationship with the Queensland Conservatorium – even before his appointment as Professor of Orchestral and Opera Studies, he was a regular guest conductor and mentor for our students,” he said.

Photo: Peter Wallis

“We are delighted to see him return to lead the Queensland Symphony Orchestra – an ensemble that showcases many of our staff and alumni.

“As one of the country’s leading conservatoires, our students have access to world-class artists who boast unrivalled industry connections.”

MaestroFritzschhas enjoyed astellarcareer throughout Europe and Asiaandis known for his interpretations ofrenownedGerman composers, includingStrauss,Mahlerand Wagner.

Heregularlyconductsmajor Australasian orchestras andleadsproductions for Opera Australia, Opera Queensland, West Australian Opera and State Opera of South Australia. Since 2018, he hasheld the position of Principal Guest Conductor of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra.

MaestroFritzschwillwork with a range of Queensland Conservatorium alumni as part of the QSO2021 Season, includinginternationally acclaimedpianistPiers Lane, revered didgeridoo artist William Barton, oboist Diana DohertyandsopranoRebecca Cassidy.