The Montreal Symphony Orchestra announced Thursday that it has accepted the
resignation of Charles Dutoit as artistic director, putting an end to
speculation that the conductor might be coaxed into returning.
The orchestra, noting that the conductor did not respond to a request that he reconsider his decision, said in a statement that "there is no longer any hope that Mr. Dutoit will return as artistic director" and announced that it is beginning a search for his replacement. The statement thanked Dutoit for "raising the orchestra's profile" and added that the MSO "hopes that it will have the opportunity to express Montrealers' gratitude at activities yet to be determined."
The announcement came the day after the musicians voted on a resolution to invite Dutoit back. The results of that vote were not revealed and there was no indication that they would be. It was also unclear at the time of the vote whether the resolution would have any effect on Dutoit, who has been guest conducting in the United States since his resignation and has refused to comment.
Dutoit, who is widely credited with elevating the MSO to international stature, quit abruptly on 10 April after the union representing the musicians issued an open letter describing him as tyrannical and abusive. His departure came just as the orchestra began promoting its 2002–03 season, which was planned as a tribute to the 65-year-old Swiss-born conductor in his 25th year on the Montreal podium.
In its statement, the orchestra said it has formed a committee to begin the process of choosing a new artistic director. The committee, which consists of members of the board of directors, musicians and Montreal community representatives, will work with outside specialists. No timetable was announced.
The orchestra also said the remaining concerts in the current season will take place as scheduled. Emmanuel Krivine will lead the orchestra next Tuesday and Wednesday and guest conductors will soon be announced for the remaining 11 programs that Dutoit was supposed to lead. Guest conductors will also be named soon for the 2002–03 season, when Dutoit was to conduct 35 of the 81 concerts.
Earlier Thursday, the Montreal Gazette reported that the anti-Dutoit camp among the musicians appeared to
have scored a victory when principal flutist Tim Hutchins, a player widely
perceived to be loyal to the conductor, quit as chairman of the orchestra
committee, a group of musicians that deals with internal affairs. The newspaper
also said the uncertainty over Dutoit had slowed renewals among the orcherstra's
15,341 subscribers.
