The Halle has announced that one of classical music’s most vibrant talents, Jonathon Heyward, is set to join the orchestra from its 2016-17 season.

The recent winner of the Grand Prix of the 54th International Competition for Young Conductors takes over from Jamie Phillips as the Halle’s Assistant Conductor and will make his Manchester debut on 10 November 2016, conducting Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture at The Bridgewater Hall.

Residing in London, Jonathon studies at the Royal Academy of Music, and is Associate Conductor of Hampstead Garden Opera.

The two year appointment encompasses assisting the Music Director and other visiting artists, acting as Music Director of the Hallé Youth Orchestra and conducting concerts with the Hallé, both in Manchester and elsewhere.

On joining the Hallé Family, Jonathon comments “I am tremendously honoured to be appointed as the Assistant Conductor and very much look forward to being a part of the growing legacy that the Hallé has developed over the many years with Sir Mark Elder, including the association with the Hallé Youth Orchestra.”

Sir Mark Elder comments “We are delighted that Jonathon will be joining the Halle. He is already a bright rising start of the conducting world, as was clear when I worked with him first last year. I am looking forward to watching his development in the variety of roles that offer a young conductor the most wonderful platform to develop the skills and understanding needed to build an international career”.