BBC names first Head of Orchestras and Choirs 

SIMON WEBB is to become the BBC’s first Head of Orchestras and Choirs, commencing January 2023. 

Beginning his career as a cellist, Webb has substantial experience in management and leadership across the orchestral sector in the UK and internationally. 

He has been Director of the BBC Philharmonic since 2014, he was Chair of the Board of the London Philharmonic Orchestra, and served as Director of Orchestral Management at CBSO. 

The new position was established following a review of the BBC’s role in the classical music ecology of the UK. In the new role, Webb will provide strategic direction, bringing world-class classical music to the widest possible audience. 

He will be responsible for delivering an ambitious education and outreach programme, identifying partnerships across the UK.  Working with the Controller of Radio 3 and BBC Proms, he will seek to maximise opportunities for new, emerging and diverse talent. 

Webb said he is delighted to be assuming a role that further reinforces the importance of the BBC’s orchestras and choirs in the wider classical music ecology. 

“They are internationally recognised for the excellence of their performances on-air, online and in venues across the UK, for their education work and the value they bring as partners both within the BBC and beyond,” he added. 

LORNA CLARKE, BBC’s Director of Music, said the BBC “plays a unique and vital role in the classical music world, both in the UK and internationally”

“As we look ahead to the future and hope to refine and strengthen our public purpose to deliver the best quality music to the widest possible audiences, I am thrilled Simon joins us as our new Head of Orchestras and Choirs, a key member of the BBC Music team,” she commented.