15 Facts About Elim Chan

Elim Chan began studies at Smith College in the US with the initial intent of becoming a medical doctor.

Elim Chan moved to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor for graduate studies in music.

Elim Chan was music director of the University of Michigan Campus Symphony Orchestra, and of the Michigan Pops Orchestra.

Elim Chan earned her MM degree in orchestra conducting from Michigan in 2011, and her Doctor of Musical Arts in 2015.

In December 2014, at age 28, Elim Chan won the Donatella Flick LSO Conducting Competition, the first female conductor to win the competition in its history.

Elim Chan has participated in master classes in conducting with Bernard Haitink.

Elim Chan returned as guest conductor with the RSNO a fortnight later as an emergency substitute for Neeme Jarvi.

Elim Chan concluded her tenure as principal guest conductor of the RSNO in March 2023.

In November 2017, Elim Chan first guest-conducted the Antwerp Symphony Orchestra.

Elim Chan returned as guest conductor in Antwerp in March 2018.

Elim Chan is both the first female conductor, and the youngest conductor, ever to be named chief conductor of the orchestra.

Elim Chan has appeared as guest conductor with her native Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, leading performances with soloists percussionist Martin Grubinger and violinist James Ehnes.

Elim Chan is married to the Dutch percussionist Dominique Vleeshouwers, who was awarded the Dutch Music Prize in 2020.

Elim Chan has participated in BBC Proms in 2019,2023 and 2024 respectively.

Elim Chan conducted her first "First night of the Proms" in 2024, together with BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra, and BBC Singers.