Vance Stallings, president of the WSO Board of Trustees, indicated that Janna’s 15 years as music director have been years of great accomplishment that have fundamentally changed the nature of the orchestra. "Janna has done wonderful things for us and we look forward to simultaneously celebrating her tenure here along with our 35th season celebration. We will be forever grateful for the foundation she has laid for our future, and wish her the best as she continues to grow in both stature and opportunity."

Hymes has stated, “It is with bittersweet feelings that I announce my departure from the Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra at the end of the coming 2018-19 season. Since 2004, Williamsburg has been a home to me, and it has been an honor to be welcomed into the community by all of you and this wonderful orchestra surrounding me. Making music with these musicians, and in this community, is a joy. It has been my pleasure to contribute to the growth and quality of music-making of this organization, to help raise the bar, to attract guest artists of international repute, and to introduce the orchestra to an international audience as well,” stated Hymes.

“I am proud of the artistic quality of the orchestra, the varied repertoire we have performed and this musical community we have nurtured. When I arrived almost 15 years ago, I had a list of goals I wanted to accomplish, from expanding the concert season, diversifying the program repertoire, and increasing awareness of the orchestra. I have achieved these goals. There is a deep sadness in me for leaving, but having been at the helm of this organization for almost half of its history, this seems an appropriate and natural transition point. I look forward to celebrating our milestone 35th anniversary season starting this fall.

“Thank you for making me part of your family, part of your community, and part of your music.”

Read details of Janna's accomplishements during her time with the WSO at the link below