Today, on the centenary of the birth of conductor Sir Charles Mackerras, ENO launches its search for an outstanding emerging conductor to join the company as its next Mackerras Fellow.

A key part of ENO’s artist development work, the ENO Mackerras Fellowship is a two-year programme offering one conductor the chance to work closely with the ENO, gaining hands-on experience across rehearsals, productions and performances at the London Coliseum and Greater Manchester.

The Fellowship honours the remarkable legacy of Sir Charles Mackerras, ENO’s Music Director from 1970-77. Mackerras joined Sadler’s Wells Opera (now English National Opera) as Assistant Conductor in 1948, beginning a lifelong association with the Company.

He is renowned for conducting Gilbert & Sullivan operas and for introducing the music of Leoš Janáček to international audiences, two strands which remain central to ENO’s repertoire.

The Fellowship has already supported a new generation of conductors, many of whom have gone on to enjoy internationally distinguished careers. Past recipients include Olivia Clarke, Matthew Kofi Waldren, Fergus Macleod, Gergely Madaras, Valentina Peleggi and Toby Purser.