Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic Music Director and Maestro M\u00e9lisse Brunet has extended her contract through June 2029, continuing her decadelong time with the baton.<\/p>\n
\u201cAfter 10 years working for the organization, from apprentice conductor to music director, I\u2019m absolutely elated to stay for another three years in our community that I love so much,\u201d Brunet said in a media release. \u201cIt is a true joy to work with our outstanding and stellar musicians.\u201d<\/p>\n
Adam Thalenfeld, president of the philharmonic board, praised Brunet in the media release.<\/p>\n
\u201cM\u00e9lisse Brunet has the rare ability to make world-class artistry feel personal,\u201d he said. \u201cOne moment she\u2019s commanding the orchestra and the next she\u2019s kneeling beside schoolchildren. This is the exact spirit we want for our orchestra, and for this community. She pushes our musicians to perform at their highest level while reminding us that music is meant to be shared, not guarded.\u201d<\/p>\n
The next performances are Thursday, Oct. 23, at St. Stephen\u2019s Episcopal Church in Wilkes-Barre, and Friday, Oct. 24, at St. Luke\u2019s Episcopal Church in Scranton, both at 7 p.m. The orchestra will be joined by the Marywood University Concert Choir in a setting illuminated by hundreds of electric candles.<\/p>\n