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The dismissal of Juan Francisco Sánchez, the long-serving director of the Torrevieja Symphony Orchestra, has sparked controversy. Sánchez claims he was let go after refusing to perform a Christmas carol at the orchestra’s New Year concert. He stated that, on Monday at 3:46 p.m., he received a WhatsApp message and email informing him of the board’s decision while he was about to start rehearsals for the February 1 concert with Daniel Diges.
Sánchez, who had worked with the orchestra for 16 years and helped establish it, questioned whether such treatment was deserved, especially given his contributions to Torrevieja’s musical reputation. He also revealed that the shock of the news caused him to seek medical attention due to anxiety-related depression.
However, the Ars Aethera association, which oversees the orchestra, defended the dismissal, citing Sánchez’s “intransigent and authoritarian attitude.” The association accused him of dismissing musicians for personal reasons, blocking the arrival of guest conductors, and working with institutions without informing the board.
In response to Sánchez’s claims, Ars Aethera issued a statement labelling his explanation as “absolutely false.” The board clarified that the decision had been brewing for some time and worsened due to Sánchez’s actions. They also criticized the false rumours he spread about concert cancellations, which led to ticket returns.
The board emphasized that the orchestra’s programming and future events are unaffected, stressing that the orchestra’s success is a collective effort, not the result of one person. Ars Aethera reassured the public about its commitment to future performances, with plans to introduce “great guest conductors” to ensure the orchestra’s continued success.
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