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DANIEL BARENBOIM TO CONCLUDE TENURE AS MUSIC DIRECTOR OF THE CHICAGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AT END OF 2005-2006 SEASON

(CHICAGO)—Daniel Barenboim today announced that he will conclude his tenure as music director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at the close of his current contract, which extends through the Orchestra's 2005-2006 season.

"The 2005-2006 season will mark my seventeenth year since I was appointed as music director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra," said Mr. Barenboim. "Chicago has been an important part of my musical life for more than forty-five years. I could not be more proud of this extraordinary Orchestra and all that we have accomplished together. After much soul-searching and reflection, I have come to realize that the position and responsibilities of a music director in America are changing in that they require many non-artistic activities and I feel I have neither the energy nor the time to fulfill them. It is this consideration that has led to this very difficult decision."

"Mr. Barenboim has informed us that he intends to conclude his tenure as music director of the CSO at the end of his current contract," said William H. Strong, Chairman of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Board of Trustees. "We are grateful for the remarkable work that he has accomplished as music director. His contributions have made an incredibly positive and lasting impact on the history and development of the CSO. Daniel Barenboim is one of the greatest musicians in the world and we have been fortunate to know him personally as an important part of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra family. The remaining two years of his tenure as our music director will be a superb time for us to admire and celebrate his musicianship. As we look to the future, our doors and our hearts are open to him. We look forward to welcoming him back to Chicago often."

Deborah Card, President of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association, remarked, "The entire city of Chicago has benefited immensely from the vast musical talents of Daniel Barenboim. Not only has he brought the best in music to Chicago, his dedication has insured that the CSO continues to be recognized as a leader in the international musical community. While we respectfully accept Mr. Barenboim’s decision and understand his reasons, we hope he will find time to come back to our stage frequently after his tenure as music director has concluded."

Mr. Strong commented that a search committee would be formed to identify Mr. Barenboim’s successor. "The Trustees remain steadfast in their commitment to carrying on the great legacy of the CSO. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra will remain at the forefront of the international orchestral world and will continue as a vital musical force within the Chicago community. The search committee will be charged with thoughtfully evaluating the needs of our organization and identifying the musical leader who will take us into the future," he said.