JSO extends music director's contract for two years

Kelly Urban, The Tribune-Democrat, Johnstown, Pa.
·3 min read

May 1—JOHNSTOWN, Pa. — The Johnstown Symphony Orchestra will continue to be led by the baton of Maestro James Blachly.

The music director has accepted a two-year extension of his contract, and will be conducting the symphony through 2026.

"I am deeply honored and excited to continue serving as the music director of the Johnstown Symphony Orchestra," Blachly said.

"I'm grateful for the support of the board, our audiences members and our orchestra for trusting me with this important position and for believing in me as a young conductor. I cherish the journey that we are on together and look forward to all of the next chapters to come."

Since assuming the role of music director in 2016, Blachly has brought a dynamic energy and an innovative approach to the JSO, captivating audiences with compelling performances and fostering a deep connection with music enthusiasts across the region.

Under his direction, the orchestra has experienced growth and acclaim, solidifying its reputation as a cultural cornerstone of Johnstown and the region.

"My commitment to Johnstown is long-term, and this contract extension is a reflection of that and this guarantees that I will be with the Johnstown Symphony Orchestra for at least 10 years and beyond," Blachly said. "The experience we have together of serving our community through music and being a part of the great exciting developments in Johnstown and the region and in reaching people on an individual level and through our inspiring art form continues to excite and motivate me every day."

Throughout his tenure, Blachly has spearheaded numerous initiatives to expand the orchestra's reach and relevance, including innovative programming, educational outreach and collaborations with renowned guest artists and local institutions.

His commitment to excellence, creativity and inclusivity has enriched the cultural landscape of Johnstown and inspired audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

"The experience has been incredibly rewarding, joyful and inspiring to work with our amazing musicians, our incredibly dedicated staff and our board who love the symphony," Blachly said. "I think about the relationships I've developed with our audience, supporters of the symphony and all the individual people who I've come to know and appreciate and they inspire me in my work."

He said moving forward, he'd like to deepen the JSO's relationship with the community through music, continue to build partnerships and collaborations and focus on education.

"We are all on the same page as an organization for what our mission is and that feels great, so I think we're in a really good place," Blachly said. "We're firing on all cylinders, and I think this is an exciting time for the orchestra as well as the Johnstown region."

Mark Addleman, president of the JSO's board of trustees, said they are delighted to renew Blachly's contract as music director of the JSO.

"His leadership and dedication have propelled the orchestra to new heights of artistic achievement and community engagement," he said. "James is a very exciting individual, extremely talented and passionate about the craft and clearly dedicated to Johnstown, so it's a no-brainer that we would continue to work with James and have him leading the artistic vision of the JSO. We look forward to the continued collaboration and innovation that James brings to our organization."