Music in the Morning announced Thursday (April 27) the appointment of cellist and arts administrator Adrian Fung as the next executive artistic director of the Vancouver arts organization.

Recognized as one of Musical America’s 30 Innovators of the Year, Fung is currently vice president for innovation at the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.

 Fung is no stranger to Music in the Morning, having performed twice with the critically-acclaimed Afiara Quartet (as its founding cellist) and once as a soloist.

Fung also has deep roots in the Vancouver community, where his family lives.

“I can think of no better candidate than my dear friend,” said Barry Shiffman, current executive artistic director. “He is a musician of exceptional skill and artistry, a deeply creative artistic producer, and a skilled arts executive. He will help lead Music in the Morning forward to continued artistic excellence and growth.”

When Fung takes the driver’s seat in August, he will oversee the 2017-18 season programmed by Shiffman and will begin work on the next chapter of Music in the Morning.