The Conversation - Managing an orchestra
Download Managing an orchestra
Ella Al-Shamahi talks to women running orchestras in Hungary and the UK.
Orsolya Erdödy is the managing director of the Budapest Festival Orchestra working alongside founder-conductor Iván Fischer. The BFO is rated among the top ten orchestras in the world regularly performing at the world’s most prestigious concert venues. Orsolya is also chief musical advisor of the Benedictine Archabbey of Pannonhalma, founded in 996 one of the oldest buildings in Hungary. She regularly appears on the Forbes list of most influential Hungarian women.
Sarah Bardwell is the Managing Director of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in the UK. An orchestra of around 100 musicians it tours globally performing with a range of international artists including Lang Lang, Diana Ross and Andrea Bocelli. As well as marketing, income generation, finance, staff and board management, Sarah is ultimately responsible for all the Orchestra's activities including touring, performances, artistic planning, conductor/artist selection, learning and community partnerships.
Produced by Jane Thurlow
(Image: (L) Sarah Bardwell, credit Tim Lutton. (R), Orsolya Erdödy credit Halász Nóra.)
Published on Monday, 1st September 2025.
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