A Cumbrian orchestra has welcomed a new conductor, who will be the second ever woman to conduct it in 70 years.

Peggy Wu, from Hong Kong, is the new conductor of the City of Carlisle Orchestra.

Ms Wu is currently studying on the ‘master of music in conducting’ course at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

A spokesperson from the orchestra said: “She is also known for her dynamic presence on the podium, a quality that the orchestra’s members are enjoying during rehearsal time.

“She brings to her new position experience of working with major orchestras in Europe including the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Scottish Opera, Red Note Ensemble, Berlin Sinfonietta and Moravian Philharmonic Orchestra.

“Peggy was chief conductor of the St. Bartholomew’s Chamber Orchestra (SBCO) from 2019 to 2022, and, most notably, led the SBCO in a semi-staged production of Cosí Fan Tutte as both conductor and producer.”

Ms Wu said: “I’ve been made to feel very welcome by the musicians in Carlisle and we’re enjoying getting to know each other during rehearsals.

“We’ve made good progress already in getting to grips with the programme for the November concert and I’m really looking forward to our performance.”

Prior to joining the RCS, she studied piano at the Royal College of Music in London.

As a pianist, she has won numerous prizes, including second and audience prize at the Birmingham International Piano Competition and second prize at the Windsor International Piano Competition.

Now, she is preparing the orchestra for its next concert on November 25, 2023, at 7.30pm in St John’s Church, Carlisle.

The programme includes Von Suppé’s Poet and Peasant Overture, Bruch’s Second Violin Concerto and Dvorak’s Ninth Symphony ‘The New World’.

Tickets cost £10 in advance and can be bought from orchestra members or at the tourist information centre in Carlisle, or £12 on the door.