Biography Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Candida Thompson began her musical studies at a young age. She studied violin at the Royal Academy of Music in London with David Takeno, where she received numerous awards and distinctions. After her studies, she quickly established herself as a versatile and sought-after musician, performing as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral leader.
Career
Amsterdam Sinfonietta Thompson's most significant role began in 1995 when she became concertmaster of the Amsterdam Sinfonietta, a renowned string orchestra known for performing without a conductor for much of its repertoire. In 2003, she was appointed the orchestra's artistic director, a position that solidified her influence on the ensemble's artistic vision and programming. Under her leadership, the Amsterdam Sinfonietta has gained international acclaim for its innovative programming, high artistic standards, and unique style, often incorporating cross-genre collaborations and diverse repertoire from Baroque to contemporary music. She frequently leads the orchestra from the concertmaster chair, a characteristic of conductor-less string ensembles.
Other Performances and Collaborations Beyond her work with the Amsterdam Sinfonietta, Thompson maintains an active career as a soloist and chamber musician. She has performed as a soloist with many prominent orchestras and has collaborated with various chamber ensembles and artists. She is also a founding member of the Camerata RCO, a chamber ensemble comprised of members of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra.
Recordings Candida Thompson has an extensive discography, primarily with the Amsterdam Sinfonietta, featuring a wide range of composers and styles. Her recordings have received critical acclaim for their musicality and adventurous programming.
Artistic Approach Thompson is known for her collaborative and open-minded approach to music-making. She champions new music and encourages innovative concert formats, while also maintaining a deep respect for traditional repertoire. Her leadership style emphasizes collective musicianship and a shared artistic vision within the Amsterdam Sinfonietta.