Symphony Music Director role to change | News

GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) - The Grand Rapids Symphony has announced that Music Director David Lockington will end his tenure at the close of the 2014-15 season and start a new role with the organization.

Lockington will become the symphony's first Music Director Laureate.  The symphony announced Tuesday that Lockington's contract as Music Director was extended through the 2014-15 season, making him the longest serving director the symphony has had at 16 years.

"David Lockington has made exceptional contributions to the Grand Rapids Symphony throughout his many years with our organization," said Board Chairperson Stephen C. Waterbury in a press release. "His extraordinary vision and musicianship have allowed us to reach new levels, from our performance in Carnegie Hall to national recognition though the Grammy nomination we received.

"Extending David Lockington's tenure as music director of our Symphony will help support the orchestra's continued achievement of artistic excellence. We are very pleased that David will continue his relationship with the Grand Rapids Symphony as Music Director Laureate." 

Lockington also holds leadership roles with orchestras in California and Spain.

In his new role as Music Director Laureate, Lockington will continue his involvement with the symphony to support its strategic vision, and will also return periodically to the podium at DeVos Performance Hall to conduct the orchestra.

"I have been fortunate to have the privilege of conducting and growing with such a fine ensemble of musicians and people," Lockington said in the press release. "Together we have accomplished much as an orchestra. It is incredible to be part of a community that so strongly embraces the arts as Grand Rapids and West Michigan does.

"The partnership and support of so many throughout our community have allowed us to accomplish a great deal professionally as well as personally. I look forward to continuing my relationship with the Symphony and supporting the important work that must and will continue."

To learn more about the Grand Rapids Symphony, visit www.grsymphony.org .