West Michigan Symphony Music Director Scott Speck Renews Contract

Posted on August 20, 2014 in General by Megan James

Muskegon, Michigan, Aug. 20, 2014 – The West Michigan Symphony will continue its tradition of musical excellence with the announcement that Music Director Scott Speck has renewed his contract with the organization. Speck started with West Michigan Symphony (WMS) in July 2002, and with the new contract in place, will continue with the Symphony for another five years.

“I’m very happy that Scott will continue to play a significant part in the WMS organization and that we can continue to tap into his vision and his spirit of collaboration,” said WMS President and CEO Carla Hill.

In addition to his role as music director of the regional orchestra for the eight-program season, Speck will continue to develop the symphony’s musical initiatives and the artistic quality of the entire organization.

“We are delighted that Scott Speck has renewed his contract with the WMS and look forward to a spectacular 75th anniversary season” said WMS Board Chairperson Susan Bissell “West Michigan has benefited from Scott’s immense talent. He has made an indelible mark in our community and we now will continue to benefit with the captivating performances of our orchestra.”

Along with continuing as the music director of the West Michigan Symphony, Speck also serves as Artistic Director of the Chicago Philharmonic Orchestra and Music Director of the Mobile Symphony in (AL) and the Joffrey Ballet in Chicago. Additionally, he has served in key leadership roles with the Los Angeles Opera, San Francisco Ballet, the Washington Ballet (DC) and the Honolulu Symphony, and as Principal Guest Conductor of the China Film Philharmonic in Beijing.

Among the many world-renowned places Speck has conducted include the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the Royal Opera House in London, and Tchaikovsky Hall in Moscow. He is also the co-author of three best-selling books in the popular Dummies series, including classical music, opera and ballet.

“My years with the wonderful West Michigan Symphony have been some of the most stimulating and important of my life,” said Speck. “I look forward to participating in many more years of musical growth on the Lakeshore!”

Celebrating its 75th anniversary, West Michigan Symphony has emerged as an economic driver in its community. Serving a regional audience with eight annual main stage concerts, 15 concerts at The Block and dozens of educational and outreach activities, securing talent such as Speck helps to solidify West Michigan Symphony’s place as a leader in the cultural community as well.