The Classical Review

Osmo Vänskä, the highly respected Finnish conductor credited with reviving the artistic fortunes of the Minnesota Orchestra, resigned Tuesday as music director of the troubled ensemble effective immediately. His statement is printed below.

The orchestra’s management and musicians’ union has been embroiled in a bitter and protracted labor dispute, which has ground on for over a year. The inability to come to terms on a new contract has resulted in a labor lockout that has brought all performances to a standstill.

On Monday the orchestra canceled its November dates at Carnegie Hall. Vänskä said he would resign if the New York concerts did not take place, and true to his word, stepped down 24 hours later.

Osmo Vänskä statement

Today I have given notice of my resignation as Music Director and Conductor for the Minnesota Orchestra Association, effective 1 October 2013.

It is a very sad day for me. Over ten years ago I was honoured to be invited to take up this position. I moved from Finland to the Twin Cities. At that time I made clear my belief that the Minnesota Orchestra could become one of the very greatest international ensembles. During the intervening years I have had the privilege of seeing that belief vindicated through the skill, hard work and commitment of this wonderful group of players and with the valued support of the Board of Directors, management and administration team, volunteers, as well as our exceptional community.

I send my deepest thanks to everyone involved for what we have achieved together and I wish the Minnesota Orchestra all the very best for its future.

Osmo Vänskä

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