In a recent email, the founder of the Lake County Symphony Orchestra says he was forced out several months ago due to an “incredibly negative set of circumstances,” and encourages members not to donate to the organization.
The email, sent to several hundred people, was from the now former executive and artistic director of the orchestra, Ron Arden. In the message, he alluded to an internal controversy and takeover of the orchestra’s board, describing it as a “story of lies and deceit.”
Arden said he resigned in August, “in response to the unreal betrayal of board members” he had recruited, “trusted and thought had integrity.”
“I cannot in good faith recommend the orchestra to you as a place for your generosity, but that is ultimately for you to decide and I respect that,” the email said.
Arden alleges the previous board president and secretary were fired in August as well, prior to his resignation. However, an LCSO statement said the former board president’s term had ended and that they were voted out, with the former secretary choosing to resign voluntarily.
The LCSO website currently lists Noah Mendez and Nathan Ward as the board president and secretary, respectively.
According to LCSO’s statement, the board accepted Arden’s resignation “based on internal concerns regarding administrative alignment, organizational expectations and long-term governance needs.”
“These components were reviewed in the context of ensuring the stability and compliance of the LCSO as a 501(c)(3) organization,” the statement said.
Lauren Moldenhauer is currently serving as interim executive director. According to an archived version of the website, she was previously a website manager for the orchestra.
According to the LCSO statement, her professional background includes experience in nonprofit arts administration, ensemble management, logistics and performance. She also has “long-standing relationships” with the group’s musicians, partners and community.
During the interim period, LCSO said its priorities are “institutional stability, transparent communication and consistent, uninterrupted operations across administrative, financial, and artistic domains.”
Any appointment of directors or staffing of vacancies will include, “a formal process and the evaluation of candidates by an established committee.”
The orchestra plans to proceed with all scheduled performances, with its December plans “fully on track.” Holiday performances are planned for Dec. 12 and 13 at the James Lumber Center in Grayslake, conducted by Jim Stephenson and featuring guest vocalist Sara Sheffield.
“The organization continues to benefit from an engaged board of directors and a committed roster of musicians who are ensuring both artistic continuity and operational stability,” the statement said.
In reference to Arden’s letter, the LCSO said statements circulating online represent his personal views, and that the LCSO, “does not concur with those characterizations”.
The LCSO “remains fully committed to compliant governance practices, the support of its musicians, and the continued presentation of high-quality symphonic music to the Lake County community,” the statement said.
Arden said he issued the statement after being contacted by several people about his absence from the upcoming concerts.
Arden, the group’s founder who celebrated the orchestra’s 20th anniversary last year, said the orchestra has been “ripped” from underneath him, describing it as an emotionally stressful and draining experience.
The email included Arden’s plans to start a new orchestra, with potential performances starting as early as February, and he said he would reach out to people with more information in the near future.
“I have learned a great deal about my expectation and perception of relationships, and I’m making some serious changes,” he said. “The next venture is going to be based on business and talent.”
