In Wednesday’s (9/30) Philadelphia Inquirer, Peter Dobrin reports, “Allison B. Vulgamore, president of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra since 1993, will take over the Philadelphia [Orchestra] at a time when it has been badly shaken by financial turmoil. She is expected to start work as president and CEO no later than Feb. 1. … Her contract, which will run for two years, is not signed, though [board chairman Richard B.] Worley said he had a ‘clear and firm understanding’ with Vulgamore. … Vulgamore—who is meeting with orchestra musicians, board and other arts leaders this week—arrives at a time of severe crisis for the 109-year-old organization. … Vulgamore will phase into the job gradually, coming to Philadelphia for visits and hosting interim executive director Frank P. Slattery Jr. for meetings in Atlanta. But she said she would immediately involve herself in three areas: the music-director search, fiscal planning, and hiring for open positions ‘that are critical to the health of the organization.’ ” She tells the reporter, “I have to say I wouldn’t be here if I hadn’t heard from all the constituencies…that the Philadelphia Orchestra is ready to rally. It’s won’t be easy, but we’re ready to rally.”
Photo credit: J.D. Scott
Posted October 1, 2009
