Roberto Ruisi Appointed Orchestra Leader at Sinfonia Cymru

The young British violinist steps into the role after five years as a member of the orchestra

British violinist Roberto Ruisi has been named as the new Leader of Sinfonia Cymru. The Welsh group is comprised exclusively of players under the age of 30 and takes an expansive approach to the symphonic repertoire — programming jazz, soul-funk, and world music alongside more traditional orchestral offerings. Many of the group's projects are conceived and led by members of the orchestra.

A former Concertmaster of the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain (a position he held for three consecutive years), Ruisi studied at the Royal College of Music. There he was awarded the institution's top prize, the Tagore Gold Medal.

Ruisi has been working with Sinfonia Cymru on various projects since 2016, alongside freelancing work in various London orchestras and chamber ensembles. These include the 12 Ensemble, an unconducted string orchestra, in which Ruisi performs alongside his elder brothers Max and Alessandro.

"Sinfonia Cymru is a great place to be," Ruisi said. "The quality is always amazing, it’s collaborative, fun, sociable, and really welcoming, it’s unique. This role means I get to be involved for the long term, helping new and exciting musicians to develop and gain some amazing experiences at the beginning of their own careers."

“We’re thrilled that Robbie has agreed to become Sinfonia Cymru’s next Leader," said Peter Bellingham, the Chief Executive of Sinfonia Cymru. "With our focus on young musicians in the early years of their careers, it’s important that we have a leader who is not only an exceptional musician but also someone who can inspire and support the young players and provide artistic leadership. Robbie fits that profile perfectly.”

You can hear Ruisi in conversation with Sinfonia Cymru violinist Caroline Pether below: