Winston-Salem Symphony Music Director Timothy Redmond is stepping down from the podium. The unexpected announcement comes less than two years into the job.
Redmond joined the orchestra in October of 2019, following Bob Moody's 13 years at the helm. On Tuesday, he submitted his resignation effective immediately and the public announcement by the symphony came the following day.
In his statement, the British conductor with engagements throughout Europe and the U.S. said the frequent commute to and from Winston-Salem was no longer sustainable, and he feared burning out.
Symphony Board Chair Carol Reeve says it's a discouraging time for the orchestra, but she's thankful for his leadership, particularly through the pandemic — reimagining how the symphony operated.
"We previously were a really strong regional orchestra, and now we are known across the globe for being innovative, for having really exciting and interesting artistic partnerships," says Reeve. "He brought creative and innovative thinking that has helped us see more of what the symphony can be, and how we can bring music to more diverse parts of our community and further corners of the world."
Next month, Assistant Conductor Karen Ní Bhroin will lead the orchestra in an unusual, staged performance with music of The Chevalier. Reeve says plans are already in place to invite talented guest conductors from across the country to help round out the season.