Press Release

Butte Symphony Association announces the hiring of a new Music Director.

Butte Symphony Association President David Sabado has announced that Luis Millan of the University of Montana will become the Music Director and Conductor of the Butte Symphony during the 2009/10 season.  Dr. Millan will be recognized by many concert-goers as having conducted the May 2008 concert by the Butte Symphony Orchestra and Chorale. Currently the conductor of the University of Montana Symphony Orchestra, Dr. Millan is looking forward to conducting Montana’s oldest symphony at the Mother Lode Theatre, the most beautiful venue in the state.  Dr. Millan has his Ph.D. in conducting from Michigan State University, and ten years of conducting experience.  Besides directing the U of M symphony, Luis is the current conductor of the Montana Lyric Opera.  Dr. Millan succeeds Elizabeth Stoyanovich of Bainbridge Island, Washington, who finished her six-year tenure with the Butte Symphony with the “German Fest” Concert last Saturday at the Mother Lode Theatre.

Dr. Millan is also an accomplished classical guitarist, having performed concerts all over the world.  “We are really excited to have Luis directing our orchestra during this upcoming 60^th season”, said President Sabado.  “We are bringing in a great conductor, who lives in Montana, and planning wonderful music for our 60^th celebratory season.”    

The Symphony Chorale, conducted by Dr. Gary Funk, will be an integral part of celebrating the history of symphonic music played in the Mining City over the past 60 years.  The Butte Symphony Association is primarily a volunteer organization with members in the orchestra, chorale, and guild.  It is planning a wonderful salute to the music and work ethic that has been an important part of this community for over half a century.