A FORMER Ardrossan trumpeter has taken up one of the top jobs in Scottish classical music.

Alistair Mackie has been appointed the new Chief Executive of The Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO) and will take up the role in April 2019.

The top musician, who has also lived in Ayr and West Kilbride, joins the RSNO from London’s Philharmonia Orchestra, where he served as Interim Managing Director from August 2016 to March 2017, a member of the Orchestra since 1996 and most recently as Joint Principal Trumpet.

He has also served as Philharmonia Chair twice from 2005 to 2011 and was elected for a third term in January 2016.

Originally from Ayrshire, he studied at Douglas Academy and the University of Surrey. In addition to his roles at the Philharmonia he has been Principal Trumpet with the London Sinfonietta since 2009 and Trumpet Professor with the Royal College of Music since 2007.

Combining a broad musical experience with a proven track record in financial planning, leadership and st rategic outlook, Mackie’s achievements during his time as Chair and Interim Chief Executive of the Philharmonia include the appointment of Esa-Pekka Salonen as Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor, the development of a strategic plan following the retirement of former Managing Director David Whelton and the adoption of digital communication positioned centrally in the Orchestra’s strategy.

The new top dog said: “I’m honoured and excited to be taking up the position of Chief Executive with the RSNO. The first orchestral concert I ever attended was a performance of The Planets at the Kelvin Hall with the Scottish National Orchestra and throughout my teenage years I was repeatedly inspired by the unique energy and musicality of this amazing ensemble. It’s no small part of why I chose to pursue a career as a professional musician.

“As the RSNO begins the next phase of its life with new Music Director Thomas Søndergård I believe there are unparalleled opportunities for this outstanding ensemble. With strong support from the Scottish Government the opportunity exists to have world-class music-making open and accessible to absolutely every member of Scottish society. Established and emerging digital platforms give new possibilities of reaching global audiences with the message of a vibrant Scottish musical scene.

“I consider myself privileged to be joining the RSNO community at this time and look forward to working with such an exceptionally talented group of people.”

Dame Sue Bruce, Chair of the RSNO Board of Directors said: “Alistair has had a stellar career playing trumpet, latterly with the Philharmonia and London Sinfonietta and has also been Chair and Interim Managing Director of the Philharmonia. We are very pleased to welcome him to his new role and we look forward to building on the successes of the orchestra.”