RSNO Chorus joined by new conducting fellow Posted Thu 3 October 2024
The Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO) Chorus announces the appointment of Eden Devaney as the next postholder of the Sir Alexander Gibson Memorial Fellowship. Named after the Orchestra’s former Principal Conductor, the fellowship offers a yearlong training opportunity for choral conductors.
Eden Devaney, a current student in Vocal Studies at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, will be mentored in score preparation and rehearsal technique and will have the opportunity to work with the RSNO Chorus, Youth Choruses and Chorus Academies across a range of choral repertoire.
While studying, Eden has been the recipient of the Molly Robb and Agnes Miller Prizes and has appeared as a soloist with the RCS Chamber Choir on BBC Scotland. He holds the position of Musical Director of the Awen Ensemble, a chamber choir of RCS singers, and is Assistant Conductor for Ayr Choral Union. On his appointment, Eden said: “I am thrilled to be offered the Sir Alexander Gibson Fellowship with the RSNO Chorus. Having the opportunity to work with a chorus of its size and standard is a dream come true for a young choral conductor – with the bonus of being able to work closely with Stephen Doughty and to learn from his vast experience. I am excited to get started and join the RSNO family.”
Stephen Doughty, RSNO Chorus Director added: “I’m thrilled that the Sir Alexander Gibson Fellowship has returned and delighted to be working with Eden on the fantastic repertoire in the current season, whilst watching him grow in his role with the RSNO Chorus. Having occupied the position myself and gained a vast amount of experience and knowledge which still informs my practice today, I know how invaluable and rewarding a time Eden will have. I’m excited to be on this journey with him.”
Founded in 1843 to give Scotland’s first full performance of Handel’s Messiah, the RSNO Chorus has a rich history behind its current reputation as one of the most successful choruses in the UK. The RSNO Chorus has approximately 120 members and performs in numerous concerts across Scotland with the RSNO each year.
Eden will be working on performances including the Season Opener concerts of Mahler’s Second Symphony this weekend, Orff’s Carmina Burana, Home Alone in Concert and a brand-new concert-staged opera by Jonathan Dove entitled Uprising. Further information on the RSNO and RSNO Chorus’ Concert Season can be found at rsno.org.uk/whats-on
