By Matt Sepic, KWMU
St. Louis – Officials with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra introduced a new music director Wednesday at Powell Hall.
David Robertson, 45, will replace Hans Vonk, who resigned in 2002 because of ill health.
Robertson will leave the Orchestre National de Lyon in France at the end of this season. He says he's looking forward to the move.
"Every orchestra I conduct is different," Robertson said. "And the thing that I like about going to different orchestras is precisely that difference. If you like McDonald's, you can go down the street. However if you want Ted Drewe's, you have to come to St. Louis."
Robertson will not become Music Director until late 2005, but will take part in all decision making starting next season.
He'll be the 12th person and the second American-born director to lead the ensemble.