Spokane Symphony's Conductor Heads to Nashville: Interim Director Appointed

The Spokane Symphony's Executive Director, Jeff vom Saal, will be departing at the end of August to take on the role of Chief Operating Officer at the Nashville Symphony.

Following vom Saal's exit, Russ Lee, former Symphony Board Chair and retired banking executive, will step into the interim Executive Director position. The search for a permanent replacement will begin during the current symphony season.

Vom Saal, who has helmed the Spokane Symphony since 2016, is credited with significantly contributing to the organisation's financial stability, introducing new revenue streams, and expanding outreach programmes.

During his tenure, he spearheaded the implementation of show concessions and a ticket sales service, both of which have boosted the symphony's financial performance. He also navigated the organisation through periods of budget deficits, particularly following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I am immensely proud of this institution and its deep connection with our community," said vom Saal. "We have achieved remarkable things despite the challenges, including the pandemic, that we have faced. This organisation has a strong history of success, and it will continue to thrive long after I'm gone."

Vom Saal highlighted the symphony's recent successes, including a significant fundraising push that reduced the projected annual budget deficit from £800,000 to just over £160,000. By the end of the fiscal year, only a small fraction of this deficit remained.

The 2023-24 season also saw a boost with the first Spokane performance by renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma, as well as a diverse range of performances, including one featuring local author Jess Walter and another celebrating the 50th anniversary of Expo '74.

Despite the financial challenges faced by many symphony orchestras, vom Saal expressed confidence in the symphony's financial health, stating that the organisation is in a good place. He highlighted the symphony's successful performance in the previous fiscal year, ending with a deficit of only £8,000, which was well within the projected budget.

The upcoming season, with a £6 million operating budget, faces a projected shortfall of nearly £80,000. However, vom Saal remains optimistic about the organisation's financial prospects.

"We are in a business where variances are common, but early indicators suggest that we are on track to meet our budget," he said.

Beyond financial performance, vom Saal also pointed to the symphony's artistic achievements, including the smooth transition from long-time Music Director Eckart Preu to the current Music Director, James Lowe, who joined the symphony during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He also expressed pride in his efforts to attract younger and more diverse audiences, implementing initiatives such as the "Masterworks 4: 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing," which featured astronaut Anne McClain and visual effects. He was also instrumental in developing the "Free Access to Student Tickets" program, which provides free tickets to children in primary and secondary schools, further strengthening the symphony's commitment to education and outreach.

"I believe I have made a lasting impact," said vom Saal. "We have expanded the range of orchestral performances to appeal to a wider audience, attracted more young people to the Fox Theatre, and ensured a robust future for the organisation for generations to come. We have stayed true to our artistic heritage, and the orchestra is playing at an exceptionally high level."

The Nashville Symphony's appeal for vom Saal stemmed from the similarities in challenges faced by both organisations, as well as the opportunity to work with a vibrant orchestra known for its artistic excellence and commitment to community engagement. He noted that he has built strong relationships with the leadership team in Nashville over the years and is excited about the opportunity to contribute to their continued success.

Reflecting on his tenure in Spokane, vom Saal emphasised the symphony's efforts to position the Fox Theatre as a venue for a wide range of performances and events, catering to diverse tastes.

"We aim to be a hall for all," he said. "Whether someone is here for a symphony performance, a ballet, or a comedy show, all are welcome. This allows us to introduce the Fox Theatre to new audiences, who may discover its beauty and atmosphere and become regular attendees at symphony performances or other events."

Looking ahead, the symphony's educational outreach programmes will continue to expand, with a week-long residency by electric violinist Mark Wood, a renowned musician known for his work with the Trans Siberian Orchestra.

Russ Lee, the interim Executive Director, expressed his confidence in the symphony's future, acknowledging vom Saal's significant contribution to the organisation's success.

"Jeff arrived in 2016 at a time when the symphony was facing a significant budget crunch, and he has led the organisation through a period of growth and stability," Lee said. "We have increased our revenue streams and our community outreach considerably. Jeff played a key role in developing a strategy to optimise the Fox Theatre and broaden our revenue streams, including establishing a food and beverage concession that contributes significantly to our income."

Lee, who will step into the interim role on September 1st, prior to the start of the new symphony season on September 14th, expressed his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition and continuing the organisation's trajectory of success.