music director removed
Photo: Okanagan Symphony Orchestra
rosemary thomson
Rosemary Thomson has been relieved of her duties as music director of the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra, just months after retiring after 16 years.
OSO announced this decision to members in an internal email on December 6th.
“This was not a simple decision by the board, but was made after careful consideration and consultation. The board has a fiduciary responsibility to act in the best interests of the organization.” Director Geraldine Parent said.
According to Castanet, the announcement came as a shock to many members and staff.
The board’s decision comes just three months after the OSO announced that Thomson would retire at the end of the 2023-24 season and transition to conductor emeritus.
“We would like to thank our outgoing music director for her contributions. Over the past 16 seasons, she has enriched our orchestra with her musical talent and audience engagement,” Parent said in a statement to members. Ta.
OSO did not respond to Castanet’s request for comment.
Thomson also did not respond, but told CBC that the decision was “devastating” to her and that her lawyer had sent a letter to the symphony orchestra. Her last performance with her symphony orchestra was last month.
Last week, it was announced that the OSO will bring on a series of guest conductors for the remainder of the 2023-24 season, including Jeff Faragher, music and artistic director of the Kootenays Symphony Orchestra.
