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Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra has announced the appointment of Amyn Merchant as the new Leader of the Orchestra. Amyn makes his debut as Leader with the Orchestra on Wednesday 28 March in Poole, under Principal Conductor Kirill Karabits, in a programme of Berlioz’s Harold in Italy and the popular Beethoven Symphony No 6 ‘Pastorale’. 

Amyn has played with the Orchestra several times over the last few months, impressing with his focus and musicality.  He will now be responsible for leading the Orchestra in the concert halls cross across the region, from Exeter to Portsmouth.

The BSO’s acclaimed Principal Conductor Kirill Karabits commented:  “I am delighted that the Orchestra finally has a new Leader, he is young but already a solid and experienced musician of a high calibre and I hugely look forward to working with Amyn on many future artistic projects”

Amyn said:  "I am delighted to be joining the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, and to have the opportunity of working with Principal Conductor Kirill Karabits on a regular basis. Rehearsals with him are always thought-provoking, and performances exciting. It is a great honour to be asked to lead such a wonderful and venerable orchestra as the BSO, and I am very much looking forward to the challenges, and no doubt memorable concerts that lie ahead.”

The London-born violinist joins the BSO from the BBC Symphony Orchestra, and is looking forward to moving to the South Coast over the summer. He started playing the violin at the age of six, winning a scholarship to the Junior Department of the Royal Academy of Music at twelve.  He has worked with the Hallé and Philharmonia Orchestras, has led the second violins at the Royal Opera House, and appeared as Leader of the Ulster Orchestra and Co-Leader of the Philharmonia. He has also made numerous concerto appearances throughout the UK.