Boston Pops Conductor Lockhart Blames BSO Turmoil on Multiple Parties

Keith Lockhart, longtime conductor of the Boston Pops, stated on GBH's Boston Public Radio that the Boston Symphony Orchestra has been "living on borrowed time" amid the crisis following music director Andris Nelsons' dismissal in early March. Lockhart criticized both the BSO board and management for mishandling the announcement and Nelsons for creating unnecessary emotional turmoil. He noted that the symphony faces steep declines in attendance and revenue, requiring "big resets" over the next few years. Lockhart compared Nelsons' exit unfavorably to Red Sox manager Alex Cora's calm departure. The BSO, in its 145th year, is divided between musicians loyal to Nelsons and leadership citing a misalignment on future vision. Lockhart, whose Pops ensemble is under the BSO umbrella but not directly involved in the controversy, urged a public forum with season ticket holders to discuss the organization's future.