McGegan Named Music Director Emeritus at Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra & Chorale
This June, Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra & Chorale officially named Nic as Music Director Emeritus, honoring his remarkable 35-year leadership from 1985 to 2020. During his tenure, he transformed the ensemble into a world-renowned force for historically informed performance, conducting nearly 1,000 concerts and producing 40 critically-acclaimed recordings.
In celebration of this new title, McGegan will return to Philharmonia’s podium for two special programs during the 2025–26 season:
🎶 January 29, 2026 – JAM: Jewish Nightlife
An evening exploring Jewish musical heritage in partnership with scholar Francesco Spagnolo, as part of the ensemble’s Jews & Music series.
🎼 February 6–8, 2026 – Baroque Garlands
A festive celebration featuring Handel’s Dixit Dominus and Rameau’s La Guirlande, with soprano Nola Richardson and tenor Aaron Sheehan.
Reflecting on the appointment, Nic shared,
“How delighted I am to be returning to conduct PBO on a regular basis—and next season’s concerts include some of my favourite music too.”
This well-deserved recognition ensures his ongoing creative partnership with the orchestra that helped define his artistic legacy.
Photo Credit: John D. Kelly
Baroque Splendor in Ireland
McGegan led Purcell’s tragic gem Dido and Aeneas in the atmospheric beauty of St. Carthage’s Cathedral last month at Blackwater Valley Opera Festival. The venue’s Gothic grandeur heightened every sigh of heartbreak and prophecy. Under his baton, the English Baroque glowed with dramatic intensity and historical insight.
To close the 2025 Festival, Nic conducted a jubilant gala with the Irish Baroque Orchestra and the luminous Paula Murrihy. Set against the rustic elegance of Dromore Yard, the program was a high-spirited homage to Handel and Gluck—a triumphant evening of rhythmic brilliance and Baroque sparkle.
🌄 On the Horizon: Aspen Music Festival
This July, Nic returns to the Aspen Music Festival for two standout evenings. On Friday, July 11, he leads a dynamic program that opens with Mozart’s spirited “Paris” Symphony and concludes with Beethoven’s monumental Symphony No. 5.
Then on Thursday, July 17, he leads the annual Baroque Evening in a program featuring Rameau’s Castor et Pollux (arr. Graham Sadler), Bach’s Violin Concerto in E Major with rising star Yvette Kraft, and Handel’s Water Music Suite in F—an evening of grace and virtuosic color.
📱 Behind the Baton
Nic continues to charm and provoke thought through his growing Instagram presence. Here are three recent highlights to watch.
🎩 Composer Fashions: Hummel & Haydn
“Far too underrated,” says McGegan of Haydn. His reflections offer a witty lens on musical fads—and enduring brilliance.
🎶 Lorraine Hunt Lieberson Tribute
In a moving post, Nic recalls standing beside Lorraine Hunt Lieberson as she sang Les Nuits d’Été—a memory still vivid with awe.
🔥 Art Over Correctness
“Music is meant to stir passion—not just obey rules.” Nic reflects on the shift in performance values toward emotional authenticity.