Hints of a progressive Californian spirit were soon in evidence, as composers started appearing onstage at Symphony Hall in Boston to introduce their works, and the atmosphere began to feel more engaged. But Samuel lasted a mere 18 months, stepping down in January for reasons that are still not clear. Smith, who for a long time was the adventurous Philharmonic’s programming guru, is hugely respected, and his hiring is cause for excitement, if some trepidation. In addition, Elizabeth Rowe, the principal flutist whose distinctive, ever-so-slightly melancholy tone has defined the sound of the modern Boston Symphony, has announced that she will leave her position next year. She sued the orchestra in 2018 to secure pay equal to that of the oboist who sits to her left, John Ferrillo.

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Persons: Mark Volpe, Gail Samuel, Samuel, Chad Smith, Smith, Malcolm Lowe, Lowe, Joseph Silverstein, Richard Burgin, Alexander Velinzon, Elita Kang, Tamara Smirnova, Elizabeth Rowe, John Ferrillo Organizations: Boston Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Symphony Hall Locations: Boston, Angeles, North America