Petrenko and Philharmonic land the double

Oct 4 2007 by Liza Williams, Liverpool Daily Post

THE youngest ever conductor to lead Liverpool’s Philharmonic Orchestra, Vasily Petrenko, has won a coveted award.

Principal conductor Mr Petrenko was named Young Artist of the Year in the Classic FM Gramophone Awards 2007 at a prestigious awards lunch in London’s Dorchester Hotel yesterday.

In a double for the Phil, the Orchestra’s Second Life project, where the 07/08 season’s opening concert on September 14 was streamed live in a virtual version of Philharmonic Hall, received the Innovation Award.

The accolade recognises Mr Petrenko’s achievements in his first year as principal conductor, with special reference to his debut CD, released earlier this year.

Said Mr Petrenko: “I’m honoured to accept this award, and thank my colleagues in the orchestra and the artists from European Opera Centre, with whom this recording was made.

“I hope the recording conveys something of the special atmosphere that was evident during our performance together in Liverpool.”

Michael Elliott, the RLPO chief executive, said: “This recognition by the UK’s classical music industry is fantastic, not just for the Phil, it’s an achievement that Liverpool and the city region can also be proud. Our orchestra, and our talismanic young maestro are making a dynamic contribution to our cultural life recognised nationally and internationally. It’s great news for 2008.”