Arts & Entertainment
Chicago Sinfonietta to Pause Concerts, Lay Off Staff in Effort to ‘Stabilize and Grow’ Finances
The Chicago Sinfonietta performs the world premiere of “Moonrise” at Chicago Symphony Center on Nov 7, 2011. (José Francisco Salgado)
The Chicago Sinfonietta will pause artistic and educational activities after the end of its current season in order “to stabilize and grow its finances,” the orchestra announced Thursday.
For nearly 40 years, the Chicago Sinfonietta has worked to advance equity in classical music by expanding access for underserved communities and developing diverse talent. The cultural institution will undergo a “strategic renewal period” focused on fundraising and revising its operating model, according to a news release.
A spokesperson confirmed the organization will lay off seven people on its staff. President and CEO Sidney Jackson will be the sole full-time employee. The layoffs were first reported by the Chicago Tribune.
“Future seasons and programming may look different but will be rooted both in our mission and a growth mindset, operating from a position of strength and sustainability,” Jackson said in a statement.
The Chicago Sinfonietta’s audience numbers and contributed revenue have not returned to pre-pandemic levels, according to a news release. On its website, the organization also said “an overreliance on grant funding meant that other revenue streams weren’t developed enough to sustain the organization once those grants ran out.”
The Chicago Sinfonietta aims to relaunch public programs next year, with a special fundraising event around MLK Day, board chair Wendy Lewis said in a statement.
The late Maestro Paul Freeman founded the Chicago Sinfonietta in 1987 and served as music director for 24 years. Next year marks the organization’s 40th anniversary.
“Securing the future of this organization is crucial,” music director Mei-Ann Chen said in a statement. “Being entrusted with its musical identity by Maestro Freeman himself and the Board 15 years ago is an artistic responsibility I treasure, especially for the unique mission championing DEI through innovative programming.”
Contact Eunice Alpasan: [email protected]
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