Canadian businessman Mandle Cheung, 78, an admitted amateur conductor, is set to lead the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) in a performance of Mahler's Second Symphony on 21 August at London's Alexandra Palace. He will be joined by soloists Elizabeth Watts and Jennifer Johnston, and the Brighton Festival Chorus.
Cheung, who founded the Mandle Philharmonic in Canada, previously conducted the Toronto Symphony in Mahler's Second Symphony last year, paying approximately C$500,000 (£264,000) for the opportunity. A representative for Cheung has confirmed he is also paying the RPO for this upcoming performance, though the specific amount has not been disclosed by the orchestra.
An RPO spokesperson stated, "We do not disclose fees for concerts," adding that the orchestra is "looking forward to welcoming Mandle Cheung to the podium this summer." The RPO's managing director, Sarah Bardwell, said the concert would "fulfil a dream for a great Mahler enthusiast, while materially supporting our community and education work for the new season."
Cheung himself acknowledged the unusual arrangement last year, telling the New York Times that "somebody who's not a recognized conductor just walks in and writes you a check and starts conducting you."