Music Director and Roy and Lillie Cullen Chair holder Andrés Orozco- Estrada is not able to return to Houston in May to close out the 2020–21 Season due to COVID-19-related travel restrictions, and the denial of the necessary travel exception required for him to enter the United States at this time. “All of us at the Symphony are deeply disappointed that the current regulatory environment is preventing Andrés from being allowed to come to Houston,” said Houston Symphony Executive Director/CEO/holder of the Margaret Alkek Williams Chair John Mangum. “It’s been extremely frustrating for all of us to be without Andrés on the podium. We have worked every possible angle with our board, our attorneys, with our lobbyist at the League of American Orchestras, and with their government contacts. We can say with confidence that we left no stone unturned, even if the outcome ultimately is not what we want. But we’re looking forward to a joyous and, I’m sure, emotional reunion with Andrés as soon as we can have one.” The reason given for the denial of Orozco-Estrada’s travel exception was the U.S. Government’s change to the National […]
