Composer Dobrinka Tabakova Appointed Artist in Residence at the Hallé Orchestra

The Bulgarian-British composer will have her works featured in a number of concerts, and will curate her own chamber music portrait in February

Bulgarian-British composer Dobrinka Tabanova will take on the new role at the Hallé Orchestra for their 2022/23 season, and a number of the orchestra's concerts will feature her works.

Tabanova's work has been commissioned by the Royal Philharmonic Society, BBC Radio 3, and the European Broadcasting Union. Her debut album String Paths was nominated for a Grammy in 2014 and she held the position of composer-in-residence with the BBC Concert Orchestra, in 2017.

As part of her new residency, Tabakova's Concerto for Cello and Strings was featured in the first mainstage concert of the Hallé season, alongside Tchaikovsky's "Pathétique" Symphony and Ravel's La Valse.

In Februrary, she will curate a chamber music concert titled "Portrait of Tabakova," which will explore some of her varied influences: the scientific world, folk music, and the music of the Renaissance.

"I’m thrilled to be working with the Hallé on so many and varied programs," Tabakova said. "Being featured as Artist in Residence allows for a deeper connection both with the musicians and with the audience. I’ve already had a great experience with Manchester audiences over the past year, so to be able to build on this is wonderful."

"I’m excited to be part of the opening concert with my Concerto for Cello and to work with Assistant Conductor and compatriot Delyana Lazarova, together with Guy Johnston. I’m also really looking forward to creating a new work for the Hallé Youth Orchestra and spending more time in Manchester!"

"Dobrinka Tabakova’s music has already been recognized around the world, and her ability to connect audiences and musicians with her compositions is remarkable," said the Hallé's Music Director Sir Mark Elder. "These are exciting times for the Hallé and I look forward to working with this new member of the Hallé family."