Key facts
- Boston Symphony Orchestra President Chad Smith admitted the organization made mistakes in terminating conductor Andris Nelsons's contract.
- Smith stated he stands by the decision and will not resign.
- Musicians have expressed a lack of trust in the BSO's leadership and communication.
- Players are seeking detailed explanations about how the board determined Nelsons did not support the strategic plan.
- Questions have been raised about the board's quorum and advance notification for the meeting that terminated Nelsons's contract.
The Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) is facing a crisis following the termination of conductor Andris Nelsons's contract. BSO President Chad Smith has acknowledged that the orchestra made mistakes in the process but affirmed his commitment to the decision and his refusal to resign.
Musicians within the orchestra have voiced significant concerns about the lack of communication and transparency from the leadership. Elizabeth Klein, associate principal flutist, highlighted that many players feel a lack of trust, especially after the "evergreen" contract was terminated without their knowledge or approval. Smith has indicated a need to rebuild trust through direct conversations, though players have noted a lack of substantive communication outside of press statements and attempted explanations.
Questions persist regarding the board's rationale for determining that Nelsons did not support the strategic plan, especially as players were not involved in its creation and some were reportedly told the orchestra overwhelmingly supported it. Players also question the board's belief that they would support Nelsons's departure and whether this influenced the termination decision. Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the omission of "musical excellence" from an initial draft of the BSO's mission statement and the quorum present at the board meeting where Nelsons's contract was terminated.
Players also question why Nelsons was excluded from educational programs despite requests and why creative ideas from the Education Committee and conductor Thomas Wilkins have been repeatedly ignored. Reports suggest the board may have been attempting to negotiate a "quiet exit" with Nelsons as early as September, though Nelsons himself indicated he was unaware of his dismissal until February.