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Dallas Symphony CEO Bill Lively Abruptly Resigns

By Bill Zeeble, KERA News

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-966359.mp3

Dallas, TX – In a surprise announcement, Dallas Symphony Orchestra CEO Bill Lively resigned today, effective immediately. The Symphony hired him earlier this month but Lively says health concerns led to his decision. KERA's Bill Zeeble reports.

Before his Dallas Symphony appointment, Bill Lively led the Super Bowl Host Committee. Prior to that, he oversaw development, fundraising and operations of the Dallas Center for the Performing Arts. He helped raise nearly $350 million to build it. But he says stress caught up to him, and stepping down is preventive move.

Bill Lively: I had a brother, John, who two and a half years ago at age 56 died of a stroke. He was a Presbyterian minister, lawyer and judge in Oklahoma and he died of a stroke, no warning. My brother Bob was 60 years old and four years ago had a stroke which paralyzed him partially and forced him into early retirement. He survived but it was nonetheless a life-changing experience.

Lively says within the past 5 weeks, he experienced symptoms new to him, including headaches. Given the family history, he decided to follow his doctor's and wife's advice, to avoid a stroke. He's giving up all professional responsibilities to reduce the pressure. Lively says he and his wife will spend the summer in Colorado, come back here this fall, and figure out his next move. The symphony has not named a replacement.

Email Bill Zeeble