Executive director leaving Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestras after 8 years

The Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestras will soon be seeking new leadership.

After almost eight years as executive director of EYSO, K. Eric Larson announced he is stepping down on June 30.

“I am truly honored to have been able to contribute to EYSO as a unique and valuable resource for our youth, and for our community,” Larson said in a news release.

The EYSO board of directors has formed a search committee and will work with the board and staff to find Larson’s successor.

“This period of change presents an invaluable opportunity for EYSO to reflect on its structure and reaffirm its dedication to its mission,” EYSO Board President Anthony Riani said in the release. “The organization looks forward to embracing the exciting potential that change brings and refining its focus on the core objectives that have always propelled EYSO forward.”

Now in its 48th season, EYSO serves nearly 400 students from over 70 area communities and is one of the region’s leading institutions for youth music education.