ENO announces the Charles Mackerras Fellowship

The English National Opera has announced the launch of the Charles Mackerras Fellowship: an initiative, in association with the Philip Loubser Foundation, acknowledging an exceptional emerging conducting talent, and celebrating the great legacy of Sir Charles Mackerras.

The recipient of the fellowship will be provided with a unique development opportunity through a structured two year programme, managed by ENO. He or she will receive mentoring from ENO’s Music Director, Edward Gardner.

The fellowship is in honour of the legendary conductor Sir Charles Mackerras, who enjoyed a special relationship with ENO, acting as Music Director of the company between 1970 and 1977.  His association with the company began in the late 1940s (when it was the Sadler’s Wells Opera) and continued until shortly before his death, when he conducted a series of memorable performances of Britten’s The Turn of the Screw. 

ENO is currently creating a list of potential candidates from top talent, working with other leading music directors and conservatoires. A selection panel will then lead an interview and audition process, involving singers and the ENO Orchestra. The first recipient of the Charles Mackerras Fellowship will be announced in April.