In our ongoing profile series of the people who make up our arts precinct, we introduce you to Richard Wigley, CEO of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra to talk leadership and upcoming orchestra tours. 

What attracted you to the role at the MSO?

The known quality and pedigree of the MSO.

What is your leadership style?

I often think this should be a question for the people around leaders. I strive to toggle between enjoying every day and acknowledging that what we do is rock hard. I hope that makes me direct but not difficult and opens the way for positive, aligned thinking.

What was the last show you saw that rocked your world?

I haven’t yet had time to get out and about in Melbourne and see everything on offer! However, I was really impressed by one of our own recent events where the Art of the Score podcast team explored the music of John Williams. It beautifully navigated the line between being deeply informative and hugely entertaining.

What are you most looking forward to seeing?

Our Chief Conductor Jaime Martìn is conducting Mahler’s monumental Symphony No. 2, Resurrection. It’s the history of the world in one evening with a huge gathering of musicians and singers. Perilous for anyone to miss it, I’d say.

What’s on the horizon at the MSO that we should keep our eyes out for?

We will be touring major European festivals this northern summer, taking Melbourne’s great cultural reputation to top venues in the UK, Spain, Italy, and Germany. These events are so high profile that venue names are embargoed until the festivals announce their programmes in a few months. 

Image credit: Simon Schluter

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