The Vermont Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors Names Charles Smith Interim Executive Director

The Vermont Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors has named Charles Smith of Burlington, Vermont, as Interim Executive Director. Alan Jordan, who held the position of Executive Director for sixteen years, has stepped down to pursue other orchestra management opportunities.

"I'm delighted that Charles Smith has agreed to be our Interim Executive Director," said Board Member Brian Harwood. "His experience in working strategically with non-profits makes him an ideal choice to head our organization through this period of transition." "Charlie is highly respected in Vermont's business community as well," added Board Chair Victoria Young. "We are confident that he will not only lead us through our transition but help us define the next steps for the Vermont Symphony Orchestra. Smith's willingness to take on this role leaves the VSO in a good position to take the time needed to secure the right leader for this organization."

As Interim Executive Director, Smith will guide the Vermont Symphony Orchestra as it continues its mission of fostering and encouraging the appreciation of music in all its various forms, with emphasis on orchestral, choral and chamber music and providing quality performances for a broad and diverse public throughout the state of Vermont.

"I am honored that the Board of Directors has selected me to lend a hand to such a great organization," said Smith. "The quality of the work of the musicians, staff and volunteers speaks to the importance of the Vermont Symphony Orchestra to our state. Now in its 80th season, the VSO is in good shape. It's a wonderful asset for Vermont, and one of the finest orchestras in northern New England," he added.

Most recently Smith has worked with Vermont PBS in team building, strategic planning and managing the company's transition to a new permanent president and CEO. He owns and operates Charles P. Smith Management and Strategic Consulting, specializing in business, finance and government matters, primarily in Vermont. Recent areas of project focus have included bank markets, health care reform, alternative energy, and the state 911 system.

Smith had a long career in banking, leading sales and marketing operations in commercial banking services for Key Bank in Vermont. He served under Jim Douglas in State Government and also as President of the Snelling Center for Government. He currently holds board positions with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont, Vermont Energy Investment Corporation, and United Way of Chittenden County. Smith resides in Burlington.

The Vermont Symphony Orchestra will present its annual TD Bank Summer Festival Tour July 1 through July 11 at beautiful venues throught Vermont. Ticket information is at vso.org

The Vermont Symphony Orchestra is the only professional statewide orchestra that provides live musical experiences for listeners in Vermont. It is a state-supported non-profit institution founded in 1935 and exists for the purpose of fostering and encouraging the appreciation of music in all its various forms, with emphasis on orchestral, choral and chamber music.

If you would like more information or would like to schedule an interview with musicians please contact Amy Caldwell at (802) 864-5741 ext. 16 or amy@vso.org.

Photo Courtesy of the VSO