A face familiar to the Oregon Bach Festival is in a new position of leadership, as the former head prepares to return to the United Kingdom.

Michael Anderson, director of artistic administration, has assumed the role of interim executive director, as John Evans accepts a new role to provide strategic planning for the festival.  A national search will take place to find a permanent successor.

“Michael has a terrific track record of success in his role with the festival and he is uniquely positioned to keep the momentum that the OBF has enjoyed during the last seven years under John’s leadership,” said Frances Bronet, senior vice president and provost.  

Anderson has been associated with the Oregon Bach Festival since 1980 when he was an instrumentalist in its orchestra, prior to moving into artistic administration in the early 1990s. Michael has also served as executive director for the Eugene Symphony, Portland Baroque Orchestra and Eugene Opera.

During Evans' tenure with OBF, the festival has undergone an era of change, which brought growth, financial stability and unprecedented participation from guest artists. He will be transitioning back to his home in the UK in the spring and will help to develop a long term strategic plan for the festival before departing.

“We appreciate his willingness to help shape the future of the OBF during his remaining months with the University of Oregon,” said Bronet. “His experience and expertise will continue to be an asset to this outstanding festival thanks to this strategic plan. We wish him all the best as he pursues career opportunities in London.”

—By Tobin J. Klinger, Public Affairs Communications