The Academy of St Martin in the Fields is one of the world’s most celebrated chamber orchestras, founded almost 60 years ago by Sir Neville Marriner, whose early concerts with the Ensemble were directed from the leader’s chair. This tradition continues with current Music Director, the violinist Joshua Bell, who was appointed in 2011 and in 2017 renewed his contract for a further three years. The Academy has developed a successful partnership with internationally renowned pianist Murray Perahia, who has been Principal Guest Conductor since 2000. The concept of the conductor-less ensemble, however, has remained the guiding principle of the Academy of St Martin in the Fields’ artistic policy and, over the years has been strengthened through its associations with high-profile artists including Julia Fischer, Julian Rachlin, Janine Jansen and Anthony Marwood.