Youngest ever assistant conductor chosen for prestigious role with Manchester's Halle Orchestra

By Dean Wilkins

The youngest ever assistant conductor is being chosen for the prestigious role at Manchester’s Halle Orchestra this September.

Jamie Phillips, 20, will take over the role at the 154-year-old orchestra after being asked to replace Andrew Gourlay – who was chosen two years ago.

Mr Phillips is currently a student at the University of Manchester and will now work alongside Sir Mark for the full orchestra and become a music director and chief conductor for younger members.

"[Being given] the chance to have so much contact time with ensembles with the guidance of expert teaching is fundamental to developing skills required to stand in front of musicians with confidence," Mr Phillips said.

The Birmingham-born musician also said he was ‘delighted’ to be given the role and he has also been invited to conduct a concert at the prominent 2013 Salzburg Festival.

The Halle's chief executive John Summers said the youngster was ‘the unanimous choice of the selection panel from an extremely talented field’.

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