The Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies is looking for a new artistic director and conductor. Amir Kats, who performed those roles for the past five years, is stepping down at the end of his contract on Aug. 31. GTCYS has about 600 students in its program – one of the largest in the United States. Kats is resigning to pursue other opportunities and spend more time with family, according to a press release. He was hired in 2007 and still plans to conduct GTCYS's summer concert on July 17 at Como Park, and the Minnesota All-State Orchestra, Aug. 6-11. Executive director Megen Balda said the organization plans to engage an interim conductor for the 2012-13 season.
