JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) - The president and CEO of the Grand Teton Musical Festival in Wyoming has resigned after festival musicians advocated for his ousting following disputes over the removal of three longtime orchestra members.
The festival’s board of directors accepted Andrew Palmer Todd’s resignation Friday, the Jackson Hole News And Guide reported Friday.
“I speak for the entire board when I express our gratitude for Andrew’s contributions to our festival,” board chairwoman Christine Hartley said in a news release. “His leadership in Jackson Hole and with our organization has exceeded our expectations.”
Todd resigned a month after the festival disinvited orchestra members resulting in a petition signed by more than a 1,000 people for the reinstatement of violist Kristen Linfante, bassoonist Juan de Gomar and violinist Jennifer Ross, officials said.
Music Director Donald Runnicles also decried their dismissal, officials said.
The Jackson Hole News And Guide previously reported the three musicians were reinstated Dec. 3.
Despite the decision, the Players’ Committee, which represents festival musicians, threatened not to return unless Todd was dismissed, festival officials said.
“I am indebted to the Jackson Hole community, to the dedicated GTMF staff, our devoted board, and the GTMF musicians,” Todd said in a statement read at a Friday board meeting. “I appreciate the Board’s willingness and trust in me to do my part in leading this organization. It has been a rewarding challenge and privilege.”
A nationwide search for a new president and CEO is expected to begin soon, officials said.
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