Prospective WSO maestros unveiled
Candidates will compete for the job
CBC News
Posted: Feb 14, 2012 12:40 PM ET
Last Updated: Feb 14, 2012 1:58 PM ET
The Windsor Symphony Orchestra revealed the eight finalists in its search for a new music director on Tuesday. (Courtesy of Windsor Symphony Orchestra)
The Windsor Symphony Orchestra unveiled a shortlist of prospective music directors on Tuesday.
The WSO is looking to replace John Morris Russell, who has accepted a position with the Cincinnati Pops.
The eight finalists were chosen from 153 applicants in 28 countries.
The eight candidates will each conduct one of the first eight concerts of the 2012-2013 season, spread over the chamber, pops, and masterworks series of performances.
Two Canadians, five Americans, and one Romanian were represented among the final candidate list. Scott Speck, music director for the West Michigan Symphony Orchestra, was also a finalist when John Morris Russell was chosen to lead the WSO in 2001.
Public to weigh in on final candidate
WSO spokeswoman Shelley Sharpe said the public will have a say in selecting the new music director.
In addition to conducting, all the candidates will meet with sponsors and patrons at public receptions, and will get to show off their leadership skills during pre-concert talks and community outreach events. They will also be evaluated on their skills engaging the media.
Sharpe said they're still determining what form any public input might take. She said the symphony's website will have a spot for patrons to provide feedback on the musical performances.
Performance dates for next season were still up in the air because the city of Windsor has yet to make a final decision on the Capitol Theatre - the symphony's new home.
Sharpe said some of the concerts may take place at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts if the deal isn't finalized. City council was planning to make a final decision on the Capitol next week.
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