Five years added to music director’s contract with the orchestra

By Peter Alexander

Michael Butterman. Photo by Glenn Ross.

The Boulder Philharmonic Board of Directors has announced that Michael Butterman, who began his tenure as music director with the orchestra in the 2006-07 season, has agreed to extend his contract for another five years, taking him through the 2018-19 season.

This is good news for Boulder music audiences, in part because stability is a good for an orchestra, and maestro tenure is a sure sign of stability within the organization. It is also good because Butterman has been a solid leader of the Philharmonic. Attendance has risen steadily during his tenure with the orchestra, making it one of Boulder’s most successful musical organizations. His programming has been adventurous, with intriguing new works offered every year, and the combination of new and old has been an ideal fit for Boulder’s eclectic audiences.

“I’ve so enjoyed getting to know the wonderful people in the Boulder community and working with the many talented musicians, artists and composers who make Boulder their home,” Butterman said. “Thanks to the community’s support and engagement, our programming reflects Boulder’s creative and entrepreneurial spirit. I look forward to the future, as the Phil builds on this foundation and continues to embrace the ‘spirit of Boulder.'”

Kyle Heckman, chair of the Boulder Phil Board of Directors, said “We are thrilled that (Butterman) has extended his contract with us. He has done an amazing job in raising the bar for musical excellence, and he has engaged in our community, while also developing a terrific educational program with the Boulder Valley School District.”

You may read the Boulder Philharmonic’s full news release announcing the contract extension here.