A report Saturday (1/12) on the WHAS news channel 11 site (Louisville, Kentucky) states, “In a major announcement Saturday, Louisville Orchestra CEO Robert Birman announced he is stepping down. Louisville Orchestra Board President, Charles D. Maisch, announced Saturday morning that Orchestra CEO, Robert Birman will step down from his position effective February 1. Birman met with the Board’s Executive Committee this week and proposed the change citing the organization’s resurgence following its re-organization and the benefit of identifying new leadership to propel the Orchestra’s future, unencumbered by its past. … Under Birman’s tenure, the Orchestra endured a year-long labor impasse in its effort to balance its costs with historical levels of income. In 2010, the Orchestra filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to restructure its persistent debt while it delivered a full season of public subscription concerts. The Orchestra successfully emerged from Bankruptcy in August 2011 and resumed concerts this past September under a 30-week contract with 55 salaried musicians. Birman was appointed COO of the Orchestra in October 2008, and later CEO in 2009. ‘The Orchestra, the staff and its board are extremely saddened to see Rob go,’ said Maisch. ‘He has been a courageous partner with an extraordinary dedication and resolve.’ ”
Posted January 14, 2013
