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Maryland Symphony Orchestra Executive Director Michael Jonnes Announces Retirement

HAGERSTOWN, Md. – December 19, 2016 – Maryland Symphony Orchestra Executive Director Michael Jonnes has announced that he will retire at the end of the 2016-17 season.

Jonnes is retiring from the position after a career of 34 years managing orchestras in Brooklyn, Washington DC, Jackson, TN and Springfield, MA prior to his work here in Hagerstown. In announcing his retirement to the Board of Directors, staff, and musicians, Jonnes said “It has been an exhilarating, exciting, challenging and fun ride these many years of working with music directors, musicians, guest soloists, board members and communities.”  He added that working with Elizabeth here has been a “special treat, she has led this orchestra to new heights musically and has worked steadfastly to make the educational and community outreach a huge success. Being a part of this team has been wonderful.” He also thanked the various board leaders and members, and the many individuals who welcomed him and his wife Barbara to the community.

Under Jonnes’s leadership, the Maryland Symphony Orchestra has begun an extensive rebranding campaign that included the launch of a new website, logo, and downtown festivals to foster the development of new patrons into the Maryland Theatre for symphony concerts. During his tenure, the number of students served through various educational outreach initiatives has increased and the MSO has expanded its role as a community resource throughout the four state region. “Michael has been a true asset to the Maryland Symphony Orchestra and will surely be missed.” states Brendan Fitzsimmons, President of the Maryland Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors. “Through his involvement with various community organizations including Leadership Washington County, Michael has been a tremendous advocate for the performing and visual arts. We wish him the best in his retirement.” Music Director Elizabeth Schulze echoed the sentiments of Fitzsimmons, “I am grateful for Michael's vision and leadership and I've truly enjoyed our collaboration.”

A national search will begin in January for Jonnes’ successor; Jonnes has agreed to remain in the position until a new Executive Director is found to insure a smooth transition. Jonnes and his wife will be relocating to Baltimore in the summer of 2017 to be closer to family. “My wife and I are looking forward with great excitement to the next chapter in our lives.”

Founded in 1982, Maryland Symphony Orchestra is celebrating its 35th season as the area’s premier professional orchestra.  Under the musical direction of Maestra Elizabeth Schulze, the Maryland Symphony Orchestra is dedicated to providing musical performances that educate and entertain, while enhancing the cultural environment of Western Maryland and the surrounding region. Learn more: www.marylandsymphony.org

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MEDIA CONTACTS

Michael Harp
Maryland Symphony Orchestra
Director of Marketing & Public Relations
301-797-4000 x.101
mharp@marylandsymphony.org