YOUNGSTOWN An announcement regarding the future of the DeYor Performing Arts Center and the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra is scheduled to take place later this morning, bringing attention to recent changes and operational concerns for the city's musical institutions.

The statement, which promised news about a “bright future”, is expected to be delivered jointly by representatives from the DeYor Performing Arts Center, JAC Management Group, and the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra.

Today's planned announcement follows months of reports regarding the artistic status of the orchestra. Last month, reports surfaced about ongoing contract negotiations between the Youngstown Symphony Society and the Henry H. Stambaugh Auditorium Association.

 The musicians' union contract expired on Aug. 31. Stambaugh CEO Matt Pagac previously declined to comment on the nature of the talks.

The announcement also comes after a period of turnover in the orchestra’s artistic leadership. Sergey Bogza, who was announced as the new music director in June 2024 with an initial three-year term beginning July 1, 2024, resigned on Nov. 7, 2024, citing "personal, health, and family reasons." Bogza was on the podium for the orchestra's season opener on Oct. 5.

Since Bogza's resignation, the symphony has secured guest conductors to lead its scheduled performances.

Whether the ongoing operational discussions have led to a new contract or management agreement remains undisclosed as of this morning. JAC Management Group representatives stated they would not comment on the negotiations before the announcement.