Fresno Philharmonic conductor moving on

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Fresno Philharmonic Conductor Theodore Kuchar is all set to wrap up a 15-year run. Kuchar will close out his career doing what he enjoys most - introducing kids to music.

Over 11,000 schoolkids will enjoy the music of the Fresno Philharmonic at the Saroyan Theater. As part of the "Link Up" program, they learned songs and learned to play recorders before they actively performed with the professionals.

Fresno Philharmonic CEO Stephen Wilson said, "We find that early exposure to music helps improve test scores, helps keep children engaged in school."

As Kuchar's career in Fresno came to a close, he admitted his relationship with management has hit a few sour notes over the years.

The conductor said, "I've done a lot here. We've done a lot here. We've done a lot together. The community, financial support which has been generated, support for the organization but a number of things have changed and I feel it's somebody else's turn."

Kuchar added he made the decision to leave three years ago when he signed his last contract. But the maestro also feared for his profession. Kuchar explained not enough young people are exposed to classical music at a young age.

"We as professional musicians, professional arts organizations have as much a commitment to trying to generate funding, financial support, not only for their normal concert series but also to develop and educate the audiences of tomorrow."

Kuchar will continue to perform overseas in Europe, Asia and Australia for four months out of the year. He will make his final exit on Thursday.