New York Philharmonic Chief Abruptly Steps Down

Gary Ginstling, the New York Philharmonic’s president and chief executive, abruptly resigned on Thursday after just a year on the job, leaving the orchestra in limbo as it grapples with challenges including an investigation into its workplace culture after two players were accused of misconduct.

His departure comes as the orchestra’s musicians and the administration are in the midst of heated talks over a new labor contract; the current agreement expires in September. The musicians have been seeking large wage increases.

As the orchestra prepares for its 2024-25 season, it is facing another leadership void: It will not have a music director. Jaap van Zweden’s six-year tenure comes to an end this summer, and his successor, the star conductor Gustavo Dudamel, does not start in the role until 2026.

The Philharmonic said that it would convene a “transition leadership team” that includes the chairmen of the Philharmonic’s board, Peter W. May and Oscar L. Tang, and Ginstling’s predecessor, Deborah Borda, who had held the post from 2017 until last year.

In a statement, Ginstling said: “The New York Philharmonic is an extraordinary institution, and it has been an honor to be a part of it. However, it has become clear to me that the institution needs a different type of leadership, and I have tendered my resignation.”

May and Tang, who declined to be interviewed, informed the Philharmonic players of the decision on Thursday afternoon. The orchestra recently returned from a tour to China and will begin a tour in Colorado next week.