ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Building on the momentum of its inaugural season, the UAE National Orchestra has appointed Raff Wilson as Artistic Planning Director, strengthening its artistic leadership as it prepares for an ambitious second season.
Wilson joins the Orchestra in July 2026, bringing more than two decades of artistic planning and orchestral leadership experience gained at the Seattle Symphony, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, and Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra.
Throughout his career, he has helped shape artistic strategy, developed international collaborations and delivered ambitious artistic programmes, while working alongside some of the most respected conductors, soloists and composers in classical music.
Wilson’s appointment follows several months of engagement with the Orchestra’s leadership team and was shaped by a shared belief in its artistic vision.
Having worked with leading orchestras across North America, Asia and Australia, he was drawn to the opportunity to contribute to an organisation bringing together Emirati musical heritage, Arabic musical traditions and international influences in a way that is rarely seen elsewhere in the orchestral world.
Working alongside Conductor Ahmed Farag and the wider leadership team, Wilson will help shape future artistic programming, support talent development initiatives, foster artistic partnerships and contribute to the long-term artistic planning of the Orchestra.
The appointment comes as the UAENO approaches the conclusion of its inaugural season later this month, having introduced audiences across the UAE to a distinctive orchestral sound rooted in Emirati heritage and forward-looking in spirit.
Bringing together musicians from more than 30 nationalities, the Orchestra is creating a shared musical language that combines Arabic and Western traditions within a single ensemble, reflecting the cultural richness, diversity and ambition of the UAE itself.
Sheikha Alia bint Khalid Al Qassimi, Managing Director of the UAE National Orchestra, said: “As we approach the conclusion of our inaugural season and look ahead to Season Two, we are incredibly pleased to welcome Raff to the UAE National Orchestra.
“Raff brings exceptional experience from some of the world’s leading orchestras, but what stood out most during our conversations was his vision, creativity and genuine appreciation for what we are building.
“His passion for artistic excellence and thoughtful planning aligns strongly with our ambitions for the future, and I am confident he will make a significant contribution as we continue building on the foundations established during our inaugural season.
“Working alongside Ahmed Farag, our musicians, and the wider team, Raff will help us continue sharing the UAE’s musical voice with audiences at home and around the world.”
Wilson said: “I am thrilled to be joining the UAE National Orchestra as Artistic Planning Director. Throughout our conversations over the past several months, I have been inspired by the ambition, creativity and vision behind this remarkable ensemble. Having worked with orchestras across North America, Asia and Australia, I believe the opportunity to bring together Emirati musical heritage, Arabic musical traditions and international influences within a single orchestra is deeply inspiring.
“I look forward to working with Sheikha Alia and the team to share great music throughout the UAE and, over time, share the Orchestra’s unique sound and stories with audiences around the world.”
The UAENO will conclude its inaugural season next week with three remaining performances – “Scheherazade” in Abu Dhabi and “Rhythm Without Borders” in Dubai – before embarking on Season Two.