The Kamloops Symphony Orchestra will be looking for a new Executive Director to replace Daniel Mills, who will be moving back to Calgary in mid-May.

Mills, who took over the helm of the KSO from longtime Executive Director, Kathy Humphreys in June 2019, and led them through the COVID-19 pandemic, will be taking over as the Director of Development at Arts Commons, Western Canada’s largest Performing Arts Centre.

“It is with bittersweet feelings that I share this news,” said John McDonald, Chair of the KSO Board.

“Daniel and KSO music director, Dina Gilbert, continually pushed the artistic envelope of our local symphony by presenting innovative and vibrant programming.”

The KSO says Mills had a passion for making orchestral music accessible to a wider audience. They note the KSO was among the first orchestras in Canada to embrace digital performances at a time when COVID-19 restrictions meant people could not gather in large groups.

“Under his management, KSO organized, filmed, and streamed eleven full-length online concerts, which racked up over 8,000 views,” the KSO said, in a statement. “During the challenging years of the pandemic, Daniel led the way in bringing music to the people when the people couldn’t bring themselves to the music.”

KSO says post-COVID restrictions, there have been a record number of people returning to live performance in Kamloops, contrary to national trends.

“Daniel has been an incredible ally and arts ambassador in our community. Thanks to his hard work, creativity, and music advocacy, he helped KSO achieve its most important phase of growth since its founding,” Gilbert said.

Mills also raised over $25,000 for the KSO by running on every street in Kamloops over the course of five months in late 2020 and early 2021.

“Daniel delivered three consecutive balanced budgets during a time when many arts organizations were struggling,” the KSO statement added.

“He forged strong relationships with other arts organizations, including Western Canada Theatre, Kamloops Art Gallery and Kamloops Film Society, setting the stage for future collaborative ventures. He fostered a positive working environment with KSO musicians and their union, the Vancouver Musicians’ Association (VMA).”

They also say Mills played a “critical role” in transitioning the KSO and its music school to its new home at Kelson Hall, while working with developers, WCT, and the City to create a new arts-specific facility for Kamloops.

“I will truly cherish the countless individuals I have met and will be forever grateful for the generosity and vibrancy demonstrated by those in the region,” Mills said.