SEATTLE, June 29 (UPI) -- Seattle Symphony Orchestra officials say French conductor Ludovic Morlot is to take over as music director designate for the 2010-11 season.
Morlot, 36, will assume the role of music director, occupied by Gerard Schwarz since 1985, at the beginning of the 2011-12 season with an initial six-year contract.
Schwarz, in turn, will become conductor laureate after his final season in 2010–2011.
Schwarz, 62, announced in September 2008 he would be stepping down from his position.
The announcement regarding his replacement was made Tuesday by Seattle Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors Chairwoman Leslie Jackson Chihuly and Interim Executive Director Mark McCampbell.
"I am thrilled and grateful to be given this wonderful opportunity to lead the Seattle Symphony into a new era," Morlot said in a statement. "I am eager to share many musical moments and emotions with the orchestra and its faithful audience, and to meet new concertgoers in the beautiful Benaroya Hall. My family and I feel privileged that we will soon become part of the Seattle community."
