In a statement, Egarr paid tribute to Hogwood and to his leading role in the period-instrument movement. "Christopher Hogwood's impact with the AAM since its foundation in 1973 has been unique and enormous, reaching huge audiences worldwide with its exploration of Baroque and Classical music on period instruments," Egarr said.

"I am honored, delighted, and highly excited to have the opportunity to carry on this important work with such a fine organization," he added. "I look forward to leading the AAM for many years to come, building on its position as the U.K.'s foremost period-instrument orchestra, with exciting programming for both the players and audiences alike."

Trained as an organist and harpsichordist at Oxford, Egarr was the harpsichordist of London Baroque from 1991 to 1995. Since 1995, he has directed Amsterdam's Academy of the Begijnhof, and has appeared as a guest conductor with Tafelmusik, the Chamber Orchestra of Europe, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and other groups.

According to a statement, Egarr's plans for the 2006-07 season include performances in Cambridge, the AAM's home base, and London's Wigmore Hall; tours of the U.K., Europe, and the United States; and Handel recordings for the Harmonia Mundi label.