Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra excels despite economic climate, says Petrenko

Conductor Vasily Petrenko explained the orchestra continues to grow stronger, even in the face of financial uncertainty in the UK.

The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra continues to grow in spite of the current economic uncertainty, according to Chief Conductor Vasily Petrenko. Since taking up his post as Principal Conductor in the 2006 season, and becoming Chief Conductor in 2009, the orchestra's financial situation and attendance have improved.

Speaking to Tim Lihoreau in his weekly web chat, Vasily explained the RLPO is going from strength to strength: "As a honourary Scouser, must say, weather is not bad today in Liverpool - at least no rain so far... But, talking seriously, in my point of view city gets better every year, even in of all the economic problems, and RLPO doing amazingly!"

Vasily also answered questions from listeners, and shared his favourite Wagner recordings in celebration of the composer's 200th birthday. The RPLO's current album, a recording of Shostakovich Symphony No. 7, is storming the classical charts, and the orchestra are set to perform an all-Wagner concert in Liverpool in June.

You can read the full chat in the Facebook comments below.