Dear ACO Community Members,
It is my duty to announce that Dr. Veronica Garcia has stepped down as Music Director of the ACO effective October 31, 2025.
Dr. Garcia has served as Music Director since the summer of 2024. During her time with us, she led our orchestra with dedication, artistry, and a deep commitment to musical excellence. It has been a privilege to have her lead us as we experienced the joy of music through her carefully curated concerts and the exceptional guest artists she brought in from the community. Her leadership highlighted the vital role of civic performance groups like the ACO have in fostering an intergenerational environment where professional musicians, students, educators, and enthusiastic amateurs can perform together on stage.
To guide us through this period of transition, I am excited to announce our Associate Conductor, Dr. W.P. (Gus) Sterneman III, will serve as Interim Music Director.
Looking ahead, the Board of Directors has initiated the search for a new Music Director to lead our orchestra into its next chapter. A search committee is being formed with the goal of finding an exceptional and inspiring leader for both our musicians and audience. We are dedicated to facilitating a smooth and thoughtful transition process for our members and our community as we under go this search.
While I am truly sad to see Dr. Garcia depart, I understand and support her decision. Dr. Garcia’s parting words to the orchestra were “I am proud of all that we have achieved and will treasure this experience.” She wished us all continued success, inspiration, and fulfillment in all the music we will create together.
I wish Dr. Garcia the very best in her future endeavors and thank her for the lasting impact made on our musical community.
Brett Osburn
President, Board of Directors
Austin Civic Orchestra
