The University of Oregon Wednesday announced the Oregon Bach Festival will now be managed by its School of Music and Dance. This after the firing of Artistic Director Matthew Halls last month.
The school never offered a clear explanation of why Halls was dismissed after his contract had been renewed. In a news release, the UO says moving festival management to the School of Music and Dance will “bolster administrative support and create stronger ties tothe university’s academic mission.” The festival started in 1970 at the UO. It became world-renowned under the direction of founders Royce Saltzman and Hemuth Rilling. The UO says School of Music and Dance Dean Brad Foley will seek input from the board and other stakeholders on the festival’s direction and future.
