News Story

The Scottish Chamber Orchestra is delighted to announce that Gregory Batsleer has extended his contract as Chorus Director until August 2028, continuing a remarkable tenure that began in 2009.

Over the past 16 years, Batsleer has transformed the SCO Chorus into a formidable vocal force, recognised for its expressiveness, consistency and artistic excellence. Under his leadership, the Chorus has expanded its repertoire and reach, performing newly commissioned works, appearing at the BBC Proms and contributing to the SCO’s acclaimed Mozart opera series at the Edinburgh International Festival.

Gregory has also played a pivotal role in developing the SCO’s Young Singers’ Programme, nurturing emerging talent and broadening the Chorus’ creative scope.

Speaking about the extension, Gregory said:

“I am over the moon to be extending my relationship with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra as Chorus Director. Over the years, it has been a joy to see the SCO Chorus become part of the very fabric of this great organisation – artistically, emotionally and culturally. The choir’s journey has been one of deep collaboration and creative ambition, and I am thrilled to continue shaping its future.”

It has been a joy to see the SCO Chorus become part of the very fabric of this great organisation.
Gregory Batsleer

SCO Chief Executive Gavin Reid added:

“We’re delighted to be marking the continuing strength of our relationship with Gregory Batsleer with a contract extension that will take his role almost to its 20th anniversary. Since 2009, Gregory has been instrumental in the development of the SCO Chorus, and under his direction they have established an unparalleled reputation that has seen them give world-class performances both in Scotland and across the UK. We are so looking forward to seeing what the future holds for the Chorus with Gregory at the helm.”

Gregory’s upcoming performances with the SCO Chorus include a programme of Vivaldi and Poulenc’s Glorias (9–10 October), Berlioz’s L’Enfance du Christ (27–28 November) and the world premiere of Jay Capperauld’s The Winter’s Brightening (21–22 December). Further highlights in the 2025/26 Season include Capperauld’s The Language of Eden (26–27 March) and a concert featuring Mozart’s Requiem and Haydn’s Paukenmesse (30 April – 1 May).

Gregory’s Chair is kindly supported by Anne McFarlane.

Image: Christopher Bowen