“The race is on for a new baton.”
That’s the motto of the final phase of the innovative search for a new principal conductor of the Cave Run Symphony Orchestra. It will seek the input of audiences and orchestra musicians in the evaluation of three finalists to succeed Maestro Terry Durbin who is stepping away from the podium after six seasons.
“Each of our finalists will conduct the orchestra in one concert this season and Dr. Durbin will return to conduct one performance,” said Dr. Lori Baruth, search committee chair. “We are excited about the prospect of allowing audiences and orchestra members to have the opportunity to comment on each candidate’s demonstrated expertise through an evaluation form after each of the three concerts.”
The finalists were chosen recently through a traditional evaluation of written applications and supporting documentation.
Dr. Baruth is principal clarinet for the Cave Run Symphony and serves as chair of the CRSO’s Artistic Advisory Committee, which is responsible for orchestra programming and musical personnel.
Dr. Craig Burrows, chair of the Symphony’s Board of Directors, also is enthusiastic about inviting concertgoers and musicians to comment on the musical mastery, leadership skills, and artistic vision of each finalist.
“Inviting those persons with the most exposure to our performances to help us find a new principal conductor is most appropriate for this community-supported symphony orchestra and I applaud the search committee’s creative approach,” Burrows added. “This process is certainly in keeping with the spirit of strong community involvement which has guided us since the orchestra’s founding twelve years ago.”
The Cave Run Symphony Orchestra opens its 2025-26 concert season on Sunday, Oct. 26, at 3 p.m. in the Morehead Conference Center with the theme of “Scandinavian Showpieces.”
Conducting will be Kyle Elgarten of Coral Gables, Fla., who currently serves as assistant conductor of the Palm Beach Symphony, associate conductor of the Frost Symphony Orchestra, and assistant conductor of the Henry Mancini Institute Orchestra.
Season tickets are $35 if purchased on or before Oct. 26 but will be $50 after that date. They are available at the Morehead Visitor Center or may be purchased online at caverunsymphony.org or at the door or by mail at CRSO, PO Box 441, Morehead, KY 40351.
Adult tickets for single concerts are $18 and can be purchased at the door or online or by mail. Students and other children are admitted free of charge.
Ticket questions should be directed to the telephone message line at 784-9894 or by e-mail to caverunsymphony@gmail.com.
(Media Contact: keithkappes@gmail.com)
