Despite his already taxing schedule, conductor Valery Gergiev has accepted the position of Dean of arts faculty at St. Petersburg State University. In addition to his commitments at the Mariinsky theater as well as his post at the London Symphony Orchestra, Gergiev will assume leadership of the arts faculty that was formed last month when the school’s academic council voted to separate the arts and philology faculties.

Critics speculate that Gergiev’s demanding itinerary will limit his participation in school affairs, but the Dean of Philology at St. Petersburg State University feels Gergiev is the perfect candidate for the role. Gergiev believes in the necessity to expose students to art and music, and has often led special programs at the Mariinsky directed towards children. His record dedication to young musicians is a likely indicator of his potential as Dean, and the university and its students undoubtedly await his contributions.

For the article in the St. Petersburg Times check out either of the following:

Source: The St. Petersburg Times via All the Conducting Masterclasses.

Posted on February 25th, 2010 at 12:58 am | Filed under General |