Utah Symphony’s Music Director Thierry Fischer will replace Charles Dutoit when the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra performs in Davies Symphony Hall Jan. 28 and 29. As we reported last month, a number of orchestras have severed ties with Dutoit in the wake of allegations that he sexually assaulted four women singers over the years.
Originally from Switzerland, Fischer is highly regarded for his work over the past nine years with the Utah Symphony, as well as with orchestras in Ireland, Wales, and Japan. He holds the title of principal guest conductor with the Seoul Philharmonic in addition to his position with the Utah Symphony, and has been a guest conductor with the Cincinnati Symphony, Boston Symphony, Czech Philharmonic, and the BBC Symphony, among others.
Fischer will conduct two separate programs. The concert on Sunday, Jan. 28 at 7:30 p.m. features Debussy’s Petite Suite, Stravinsky’s Firebird, and Haydn’s Cello Concerto No. 1 with soloist Gautier Capuçon. On Monday, Jan. 29 at 8 p.m., the bill features Respighi’s Fountains of Rome, Stravinsky’s Petrushka, and Liszt’s Piano Concerto No. 2 with soloist Jean Yves-Thibaudet.
These are Fischer's first appearances in the Bay Area. He will also conduct the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in Palm Desert, Costa Mesa, Northridge, and Davis.
