In a letter to the Board, the Members of the Orchestra and colleagues Kathryn wrote:
Dear Colleagues,
I am writing to let you know that I will be stepping down from my role as Managing Director of the LSO at the end of next season, in July 2026.
It has been a huge privilege to hold this position for twenty years, and I feel the time is right to hand over to someone who can shape and develop this wonderful Orchestra in all its facets for the decades to come, whilst giving me an opportunity to explore other interests.
I am deeply grateful for the support of LSO musicians, staff colleagues, artists and composers, board members and advisers, patrons, funding partners, audiences and colleagues across the cultural sector, and I look forward to continuing to work with you in the 12 months ahead. It has been a constant pleasure throughout my tenure to hear the LSO perform at home and abroad, and to see the impact of the LSO’s music-making on our audiences and participants.
With all good wishes
Kathryn
Chair of the London Symphony Orchestra Sarah Quinn said:
“Kathryn McDowell has been a transformative force for the LSO. Under her inspired guidance, the Orchestra has not only flourished but expanded its reach and impact across the world. Her musical insight, unrivalled ability to collaborate with the world’s leading soloists and conductors, and extensive cultural networks have set the LSO apart.
Kathryn’s entrepreneurial spirit has fuelled the dramatic growth of LSO Live and our digital presence, while LSO Discovery—our flagship education and community programme—now supports the next generation of talent from toddlers to emerging musicians and composers. Her tireless dedication to nurturing our relationships with our public and private funders and energetic fundraising, including a visionary endowment fund has ensured the Orchestra’s continued stability through difficult years.
The LSO is immensely fortunate to have had the benefit of Kathryn’s absolute commitment for what will be twenty-one years when she steps down. We all thank her for her enormous contribution and look forward to a terrific final season together. She will leave with the Orchestra playing at the top of its game and working with an exceptional group of artists, supported by a highly experienced and dedicated staff team. The Board will begin an international recruitment process with immediate effect.”
-Ends-
Enquiries:
Christopher Millard, Head of Press & External Relations
London Symphony Orchestra
Barbican Centre, Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS
D +44 20 7382 2550 | chris.millard@lso.co.uk
M +44 7545 502226
