"The appointments reflect the deep commitment of both conductors to the RNO," a press release read, "and supersede a previous announcement on the orchestra's artistic leadership."

Chief executive Sergei Markov said, "Mikhail Pletnev faces a difficult task in balancing his activities as conductor, composer and pianist. We are happy that a solution has been found which makes it possible for the orchestra to continue to enjoy his leadership."

Pletnev will spend approximately 15 weeks per season with the RNO, which he founded in 1990; Jurowski will lead eight weeks per season. The two will both accompany the orchestra on a 15th-anniversary tour of the United States in March 2006.