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Around 100 members of the Ars Aetheria association, which manages the Orquesta Sinfónica de Torrevieja (OST), are calling for an extraordinary assembly to demand the reinstatement of José Francisco Sánchez as the orchestra’s director. Sánchez had led the orchestra for 17 years before being dismissed recently.
The group is requesting that the association’s board, led by Mamen Mateo, explain the reasons behind his dismissal. They also want Sánchez reinstated until May 2025 and for the current board to be dissolved, followed by elections.
The members argue that any division between the board and the artistic director should be addressed by offering the community a chance to choose a new artistic director for the upcoming season.
The controversy surrounding Sánchez’s dismissal is particularly sensitive as it occurred mid-season, with Sánchez’s name already listed as the conductor for upcoming concerts. The members also criticized the manner in which the decision was handled, especially as the board did not present it to the general assembly for a vote.
Although the reasons for the dismissal remain unclear, there are indications of disagreements related to artistic and financial matters. Sánchez, who had received praise for his leadership, had a close relationship with the board, which awarded him the Diego Ramírez local prize in 2023. The orchestra has enjoyed strong financial support and widespread success under his direction.
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