Bristol Music Trust, the organisation which manages Bristol’s iconic Colston Hall entertainment venue, has appointed two high-profile individuals from the arts and industry to its board.
Andrew Nisbet and Sir Brian McMaster bring with them extensive experience and, along with the existing board members, will continue to develop the venue’s artistic programme and future.
Mr Nisbet, founder and chairman of Bristol-based Nisbets, the UK's largest supplier of catering equipment, has just completed his duty as High Sheriff of Bristol for 2012/13. His additional interests include chairmanship of Young Bristol and membership of the Council of The Old Vic Theatre School.
He said: “I believe a strong cultural sector is essential for the city to support its flourishing future. I am also interested in being involved with the Trust’s work with disadvantaged young people and its entire education remit as the work it does transforms young people’s lives. Joining the board of Bristol Music Trust will enable me to contribute to the promotion of Bristol.”
The trustees give guidance and direction to the business and these two appointments are specifically designed to ensure Colston Hall has a wide area of expertise on the board from both a national and international perspective.
Sir Brian McMaster is a former managing director of the Welsh National Opera. He was director of the Edinburgh International Festival from 1991 to 2006 and authored the influential McMaster report on supporting excellence in the arts.
Trained in law, his career also included joining EMI Records as a member of their International Classical Division and a stint as artistic director of Vancouver Opera.
Colston Hall CEO Louise Mitchell said: “These high-level appointments to the board of Bristol Music Trust come at a time of pivotal development for the venue as we head into a period of redevelopment and fundraising. They will ensure our business practices reflect the views and wishes of the people who use our services including our audiences, promoters and young people involved in the education programme.”
