December 19, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Portland, Ore. … Norman Leyden, Associate Conductor of the Oregon Symphony for more than 33 years, has announced he will retire at the conclusion of the 2003-2004 season. Leyden, 86, began his work with the Oregon Symphony in 1970.
“For the past thirty-four years I’ve had a dream job, working with my wonderful colleagues of the Oregon Symphony, the Leyden Singers and our soloists, to bring the best in popular music to those who have made our Pops series such a success,” said Leyden.
“There is no question that Norman has had an immeasurable impact on the Symphony organization over the years,” said Duane McDougall, the Oregon Symphony’s Interim President. “He launched the Pops series 34 years ago and made it one of the nation’s most successful Pops series for many, many years. He also helped to create our Sunday matinee series, and has conducted countless classical programs over the years as well.”
Leyden, who began his career with the Glenn Miller Army/Air Force Band, will be honored at the Symphony’s March 27-29 Salute to Glenn Miller Pops Concerts, at which time he will receive a lifetime title of Laureate Associate Conductor.
“Lifetime titles are rare in this business and are only offered when a conductor’s tenure has had a transformational impact on the development of an orchestra,” said McDougall. “Norman certainly qualifies.”
