THE chief executive of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra has been named Orchestra Manager of the Year for his “passionate dedication to inclusion” – including its series of live-streamed concerts.

Dougie Scarfe was nominated by industry peers for the title, which he won at the ABO/Classical Music Awards.

The award was presented by Classic FM presenter Anne-Marie Minhall and ABO interim chair Jenny Jamison at the 2023 Association of British Orchestras conference in Leeds.

The BSO used streaming to reach audiences and keep musicians active during Covid. Its broadcasts have continued after the end of lockdowns, widening access to culture for people who were previously excluded because of rural isolation or ill-health.

In 2021-22, 23,099 digital tickets were sold for the orchestra’s 44 streamed performances, reaching viewers in six continents.

The award also recognises Mr Scarfe’s work with BSO Resound, which was the first disabled-led ensemble at the core of a major orchestra in 2018.

He was also saluted for his commitment to commissioning new music that will build the repertoire for inclusive ensembles.

In 2023, BSO Resound will untie with RNS Moves to give the world premiere of Kate Whitley’s Falling, with livestreamed performances in Poole and Gateshead.

Mr Scarfe said: “I’m deeply honoured to receive the ABO/Classical Music Orchestra Manager of the Year award. Throughout my career I have passionately believed that inclusion is not a project. I am proud that our efforts here at the BSO to celebrate lesser-known voices — whether that’s the music being performed on our stages and in live broadcasts, the musicians in society who are finally being heard, or the collaborations we’re forming to ensure this momentum builds — has been recognised.

“The BSO has such a unique remit championing the value of culture in people’s lives across 10,000-square-miles of the South West and I’m proud to receive this award on behalf of the brilliant BSO musicians and staff, and our wonderful audiences, communities and supporters who make everything we do possible.”

Judith Webster, chief executive of the Association of British Orchestras, said: “British orchestras continue to demonstrate extraordinary levels of resolve and imagination, even at the most challenging of times. Dougie’s commitment to inclusion in all that his orchestra does, from Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s digital offer during the pandemic to providing opportunities for disabled musicians make him a deserving winner of the 2023 ABO/Classical Music 2023 Orchestra Manager of the Year Award.”

Andrew Flockhart, chair of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, said: “On behalf of the board of trustees I would like to congratulate Dougie for this award which is very well deserved indeed. His commitment to inclusion and innovation shines through him every day. We appreciate this and so many people benefit from this in ways that are often unseen. He is a great example to the whole world of classical music.

"Dougie’s leadership of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and his work with sector, community and funding partners demonstrates what can be achieved and brings inspiration, joy and confidence to all.”