Maestra Elizabeth Schulze, Artistic Director and Conductor of the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra, has announced that she will conclude her tenure with the FSO at the end of her current contract in the 2016-2017 season. At the time she passes the baton to her successor, Maestra Schulze will have been at the helm of the FSO for nine seasons.
“I am so grateful for and proud of the time I have spent with this wonderful orchestra and its supportive community” Schulze said. “Together, we have expanded and diversified our repertoire and created new audiences for the great music that we play. I am looking forward to returning to an active guest conducting schedule along with my ongoing duties as Music Director of the Maryland Symphony Orchestra.”
During her tenure, Schulze has led the orchestra through a period of artistic growth, increased community engagement, and national acclaim. In 2013 she was honored for her work with the FSO with the Medallion in Conducting awarded by the Sorel Charitable Organization, a non-profit that advances the role of women in music. A champion of music in education, Schulze is also responsible for bringing educational concerts back to the annual offering of the FSO through an ongoing partnership with the Carnegie Hall “Link Up” program.
“It has been my honor and pleasure to work with Elizabeth for the past two seasons,” said FSO Executive Director Christopher Barton. “She is a remarkable artist who brings unmatched passion and generosity to her work. Though I will truly miss our partnership, I know I can look forward to celebrating her future accomplishments.”
“Maestra Schulze has a fantastic upcoming season planned for our audience,” said FSO Board President Carl Taylor. “We are grateful for the tremendous growth of our organization under her leadership over the past seven years and for the continuity her presence through the 2016-2017 season provides.” The Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra 2015-2016 season, its 66th, opens on September 25th with guest soloist Rachel Barton Pine performing the Brahms Violin Concerto.
The FSO Board of Directors is moving forward immediately to form a committee to search for Schulze’s successor.
