DSO Conductor Leonard Slatkin Gets Contract Extension

DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - Detroit Symphony Orchestra music director and conductor Leonard Slatkin is getting a three-year contract extension, through the 2015-16 season.

Slatkin made the announcement to the audience following a performance at Orchestra Hall Thursday night. He told the Associated Press, "I'm completely thrilled by this. I love this orchestra. I love this city."

Slatkin joined the DSO in 2008 following a 12-year tenure as music director of the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, D.C. He is also conductor of the National Orchestra of Lyon in France.

Slatkin says the DSO has renewed energy following a bitter, six-month musicians strike that ended in April. He says "We're seeing almost consistently full houses."

The symphony's chief executive, Anne Parsons, said of Slatkin, "Leonard has provided outstanding artistic leadership since he began with us, and we are thrilled to be able to confirm his extended agreement."

The 67 year-old conductor is purchasing a home in Bloomfield Hills and is getting married this Sunday. He tells the Associated Press, "I am proud to call Detroit my home."

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