Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) Music Director Alondra de la Parra has been named Mexico's Woman of the Year 2018 in a ceremony held overnight in Mexico City.
The internationally acclaimed conductor was given the prestigious title by the Mexican National Board of Women of the Year. The award was presented by the founder Kena Moreno and the Secretary of State, Olga Sánchez Cordero at the National Museum of Anthropology (MNA). Ms de la Parra joins 50 women who since 1960 have received the recognition. IMAGES AVAILABLE on request.
The union of Queensland Symphony Orchestra and Alondra de la Parra has seen the orchestra acclaimed for a maturity of musicality, a roll-call of 44 international soloists and 30 international conductors together with 39 Australian soloists and 24 Australian conductors, and a passion in playing not witnessed in the Concert Hall before.
QSO Chair Chris Freeman said the entire orchestra stands together in congratulating her today for being named Mexico's Woman of the Year.
"Alondra's tenure as Music Director has opened the world to the company and shined a magnificent light on Queensland and Australia as home to world class musicians," he said. "Alondra's appointment as Music Director was an Australian first, and a major international coup and we are incredibly proud of her achievements."
Ms de la Parra said she was truly honoured. "It is a true honour to receive this medal from the Secretary of State Olga Sanchez Cordero, which has been previously awarded to such remarkable women. Am humbled and extremely grateful to know my work is recognised in my country," she said.
He said Season 2019 would be magnificent. "Led by 10 magnificent Maestro concerts, a spotlight on Australian composers and showcasing concertos for harp, clarinet, trombone and double bass among others, Queensland Symphony Orchestra's Season 2019 is one to cement its reputation as an orchestra for everyone, proudly under the baton of Alondra de la Parra," he said.
