But sources say the executive committee recommended, and the full board agreed, not to renew the maestro's contract after the 2000-2001 season. The board will, however, offer him guest conductor slots. The executive committee reportedly pointed to Aykal's involvement with other projects and two more orchestras in its decision not to renew. With his world class credentials, Aykal gets praise for turning the El Paso Symphony into a top-quality orchestra. But sources say he has resisted moves away from serious classical music to lighter pops performances at a time when the orchestra is working to broaden its appeal and bolster lagging attendance figures.
Some supporters argue there is room for both on the symphony schedule.
Bring in a guest conductor for Disney or Gershwin nights, they suggest, so Aykal can concentrate on more classical fare. Aykal, in the meantime, is back in New York, recovering in his native Turkey from gall bladder surgery. I would like at this time to clarify the situation, so that we may move forward in a positive manner in resolving any problems or misunderstandings that might exist. I first would like to state that I have never resigned my position as music director of the El Paso Symphony Orchestra and that I have not to this date been offered a contract extension. I do not feel that, as the conductor of the orchestra, it is my place to request a contract extension.