US music director steps down to do missionary work
mainChange is coming fast at the San Diego Symphony with the arrival of CEO Martha Gilmer from Chicago.
Jahja Ling, 63, music director since 2004, has announced he’s stepping down.
He told the orchestra: ‘After the 2016-17 season, I look forward to pursuing more international guest conducting, passing on the great musical traditions to the next generation through teaching and continuing with my volunteer work in the Christian mission.’
According to his wikipedia entry, Jahja Ling has been volunteering for the Reformed Evangelical ministry in Jakarta, Indonesia, since 2008. He is also a Vice President of the Stephen Tong Evangelistic Ministries International.
I could tell from the title that he wasn’t Jewish.
I am deeply moved. This “Conductor” is ‘in tune’ with the
‘right’ source! It would be wonderful to hear him conduct
the St. Matthew Passion and/or the Faure Requiem … Both such holy works. How truly wonderfully refreshing ~