The New York Philharmonic salutes Kenneth Fischer, who, it was just announced, will retire as President of the University of Michigan's University Musical Society (UMS) at the end of the 2016–17 season.
Mr. Fischer’s 30-year tenure at the helm of one of the nation’s oldest performing arts presenters has been marked by countless performances of the highest caliber and strong artistic partnerships, including regular appearances by the New York Philharmonic and a new multi-year residency launched in the fall of 2015 in conjunction with the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance (the photo above is from the launch of this residency, in October 2015). Mr. Fischer’s enduring contributions have enriched both the Ann Arbor community and the nation at large.
“All of us at the New York Philharmonic congratulate Ken on his long and incredibly accomplished tenure as President of UMS,” said New York Philharmonic President Matthew VanBesien. “Not only has the Philharmonic been a regular visitor to Ann Arbor since it came for the first time with Josef Stransky under the Choral Union Series in 1916, but Ken has been a leader in evolving our relationship with UMS to create our unique and rich residency partnership, launched this past October, which includes both performances and a wide array of educational opportunities. Ken is truly an icon in the field of arts presenters, and has been a wonderful partner and friend to the Philharmonic. On a personal level, I can’t help but be proud to call him a colleague and a friend, as well as a fellow horn player and Interlochen alum! We look forward to another season of partnership with Ken and UMS, and to many years of friendship.”
Music Director Alan Gilbert said, “Ken Fischer’s tenure in Ann Arbor has reflected his love of music and commitment to bringing the best artists and programs to his community. Our partnership with the University Musical Society, created under Ken’s guidance, is exactly the kind of collaborative venture that I believe the New York Philharmonic should be pursuing.”
(Photo: Chris Lee)
