Baltimore Symphony to tap Alsop

Marin Alsop, the first woman conductor to head a major British orchestra, says she expects to be appointed music director of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.

Pending approval of a contract, which was still being negotiated, and a vote Tuesday by the symphony’s board, she would take over in the 2007-08 season, Alsop said Friday.

“It’s imminent. I don’t think there are any huge stumbling blocks,” Alsop said.

Laura Johnson, a symphony spokeswoman, said “the majority of the board feels very favorable to Ms. Alsop. This could be an incredible moment.”

Alsop, 48, is principal conductor at the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. The new job, she said, would make her the first woman to lead a top-tier U.S. orchestra, in terms of budget.