In Friday’s (4/20) San Bernardino Sun (California), Michel Nolan writes, “After 11 years as conductor and music director of the San Bernardino Symphony, Carlo Ponti Jr. is stepping down when the 2011-2012 season concludes next month. Frank Fetta, artistic adviser and conductor of the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival, who has been guest conductor of the San Bernardino Symphony, will be named Ponti’s successor. ‘Maestro Ponti brought the orchestra to unprecedented levels of artistic achievement,’ symphony board President Mary Schnepp said Thursday. ‘During his tenure with the orchestra, Carlo has brought a dedicated intensity to his role as music director and conductor.’ Schnepp said Ponti also brought the orchestra to ‘unprecedented levels of financial stability.’ … ‘The San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra, its musicians, board members and staff will always hold a special place in my heart,’ Ponti said. ‘I am proud of the music we made together and of the impact our collaboration had on this very special community.’ Ponti first conducted the San Bernardino Symphony in a special star-studded guest appearance in March 2000. In January 2001, when he was 33, he was named music director and principal conductor.”
Posted April 23, 2012
