Life

Joiner handing off baton as HSO conductor

Thomas Joiner

By Lightning Reports, Published: November 15, 2019

The Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra's music director and conductor for the past 21 seasons, Thomas Joiner, is stepping down from the role this season, and the symphony has launched a search for his successor.

The finalists will each determine the program and conduct the Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra at a concert in the 2020-2021 season, which will begin in September 2020. Both patrons and musicians will have an opportunity to provide their individual feedback on the finalists following each concert, with the final selection of the new music director and conductor to be announced in April 2021.

The new conductor will lead the artistic future of the orchestra through its 50th anniversary and into the years ahead. Criteria for applicants will be available soon, with the regional search, interviewing of candidates and selection of four finalists to take place over the next several months.

“This is a truly exciting time for the Hendersonville Symphony organization, as we enter this intensive search for our new artistic leader,” said David Huff, Search Committee co-chair. “Orchestras serving small communities have seen enormous challenges over the past decade, due to changes in audience priorities and financial constraints. The Hendersonville Symphony continues to seek creative ways to engage our dedicated audience and patrons, as well as to develop new programs and community involvement opportunities that will take us successfully into future years. This search process is critical in selecting an artistic leader of excellence in talent, vision and community involvement, who will serve a key role in achieving this strong, exciting future.”

The Symphony board and staff will continue to share their admiration of and gratitude to Dr. Joiner for his dedication to the Symphony’s growth and success.