New York Phil CEO Gary Ginstling Resigns Abruptly After One Year

July 12, 2024, 5:23 PM · After just a year in the position, Gary Ginstling has resigned as President and CEO of the New York Philharmonic, effective immediately.

Gary Ginstling

The announcement was made public by the symphony's board in a press release on Thursday.

"The New York Philharmonic is an extraordinary institution, and it has been an honor to be a part of it," Ginstling said. "However, it has become clear to me that the institution needs a different type of leadership, and I have tendered my resignation. I wish incoming Music and Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel, the musicians, the board, the staff, and everyone associated with this organization all the best for its future."

Ginstling, 58, became President and CEO of the NY Phil in July 2023, succeeding Deborah Borda, who held the post since 2017, having previously served as President and CEO of the Los Angeles Philharmonic for 17 years.

Ginstling leaves the orchestra at a time of transition, with no music director this fall, as current Music Director Jaap van Zweden ends his six-year tenure this summer, and Gustavo Dudamel does not begin his until 2026. The orchestra also is in the midst of negotiations with musicians over their labor contract, which expires in September 2024.

Under Ginstling the orchestra in April also launched an independent investigation over "the culture of the New York Philharmonic in recent years" as well as how it had handled allegations of misconduct by two musicians back in 2010 - allegations which had been revived in a recent New York Magazine article.

The NY Phil's statement did not state a specific reason for Ginstling's departure, but an article in the New York Times pointed to disagreements with Dudamel, tensions over the misconduct inquiry, and logistical problems with a recent orchestra tour to China.

A transition leadership team led by Board Co-Chairmen Peter W. May and Oscar L. Tang, with Deborah Borda as Executive Advisor, has been assembled to ensure continuity while the board works to identify a new President and CEO.

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