Concertmaster quits rising orchestra

After three seasons with a revitalised Seattle Symphony, the Russian-born Alexander Velinzon has announced his return to Boston. He was assistant concertmaster of the Boston Symphony for seven years before Seattle came calling.

We understand that Velinzon was the personal pick of music director Ludovic Morlot, selected above five internal and five external candidates. His tenure was unsettled by recent changes to the musicians’ contract and demands for a reaudition. He was facing a players’ vote on Friday, but quit an hour or two before the ballot was held.

His departure is a setback for Morlot, who said: ‘Alex is a wonderful artist. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to share his talents with our orchestra and community. I’m grateful for the many hours of music we made together, and sincerely wish him all the best for his future in Boston.’

UPDATE: Velinzon has remained throughout on the BSO roster and shuttled frequently back from Seattle.