Just to add to the Marin Alsop conversation.  She is up pretty regularly
with the RSNO as the guest principal conductor, and has just conducted us
in the last week of our Prom series in Glasgow.  She is a pleasure to work
with, easy-going and obviously conveys what she wants in a very agreeable
manner.  I'm sure I can say for many people, that we look forward to seeing
her again soon.  As a female conductor, I personally look on her as any
other conductor.  The level of competency and knowledge does not depend
on what sex you are as is obvious with quite a few male conductors!!

Alexa Butterworth