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ASO Executive Director Announces Retirement

September 19, 2008
  • Who: Austin Symphony Orchestra
  • Contact: Don Hill, Director of Public Relations - 476-6064 x 213

For Immediate Release:

Austin, TX: It was announced today that Jim Reagan, Executive Director of the Austin Symphony Orchestra (ASO) for the past 10 years, has announced his retirement from the organization effective November 1, 2008. Reagan announced that he has accepted an assignment to become the CEO of a North Texas area Public Improvement District to develop a strategic program and lead the organization for a period of months full time, later becoming a consultant on a part time basis.

Reagan adds, “The ten years that I have had the privilege of leading the Austin Symphony has been the most enjoyable and rewarding in my entire career. The extraordinary support of the board of directors, staff, patrons and musicians has enabled us to become one of the most successful orchestras in the country.”

At the ASO’s quarterly Board of Directors meeting on September 17, President Joe R. Long acknowledged the great strides accomplished under Reagan’s tenure, including a decade of balanced budgets, a growth of the budget by 60%, increased subscription base of 25%, single tickets sales increase of 44% and a 100% increase in the annual development fund.

“I am particularly proud of the formation of the Butler Pops Series and the Hartman Concerts in the Park and the Addy Classical Artists Series. These new series have enabled the ASO to reach a vast new audience and has greatly increased our base. The steady growth of the size of the ASO endowment has helped make these programs possible,” stated Reagan.

Mr. Reagan feels confident that all of the programs in place for the next several months will enable the ASO to continue to operate smoothly while his successor is being sought. “I believe whoever has the great honor of being the next leader of the ASO will find a very sound symphony in place, both financially and organizationally, and can continue the excellence we have all come to expect.”