One of Canberra's most prominent musical figures has a new string in his bow with a prestigious new appointment in Germany.


Chief conductor and artistic director of the Canberra Symphony Orchestra Nicholas Milton, pictured, now has an equivalent role with the State Theatre in Saarbrucken, Germany, where he will start work in 2014. But Canberra orchestra lovers need not fret - yet. Dr Milton will be remaining in his position here until ''at least 2016''.


Announcing the appointment on Monday, the Canberra orchestra said the State Theatre ''underwent a rigorous and comprehensive international search in which Dr Milton emerged as the clear favourite from over 100 finalists''. He said in a statement that the State Theatre in Saarbrucken was ''an exhilarating house with a proud and distinguished tradition''.


Chief executive of the Canberra Symphony Orchestra Henry Laska said the appointment was a well-earned reward for Dr Milton, who has led the CSO since 2007.


Dr Milton will return to Canberra to conduct Llewellyn Series 14.2 Mahler on May 7 and 8. Sally Pryor