Västerås Sinfonietta has announced conductor Jessica Cottis as an Artistic Partner from Autumn 2023. The orchestra has introduced a unique way of working for Swedish orchestras, where four diverse musical artists will have a three-year partnership with the ensemble. The initiative provides an opportunity for the artists and the orchestra to further develop their relationship. Cottis will work with the orchestra through to Spring 2026.

Rikard Gateau, artistic director at Västmanlandsmusiken, said “Throughout my years of booking guest artists, there are people we have become extra fond of. Working with artistic partners provides us the opportunity to create more continuous programming as well as the ability to better plan ahead.”

Cottis said, “In collaborating with this orchestra, I’ve always felt a special musical connection and intellectual affinity. It’s very inspiring to programme and create music with these brilliant and open-minded musicians who bring with them such warmth and vision to their art. I am very proud to be a part of this wonderful group of people.”

Photo credit: Kaupo_Kikkas