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Hankewich extends contract with Orchestra Iowa

Timothy Hankewich, now entering his fourth season as music director of Orchestra Iowa, has signed a three-year extension to his contract that will keep him with the group through the 2011-12 season.

“I am delighted to continue my tenure with this outstanding orchestra and I relish the opportunity to play a significant role in the rebuilding of our community,” Hankewich says in a statement. “As we recover from great adversity, the flood has given us unprecedented opportunity and I am excited by the prospect of transforming the orchestra to meet the challenges ahead.”

Orchestra Iowa, also known as the Cedar Rapids Symphony Orchestra, expects to return to its home venue, the flood-damaged Paramount Theatre, during Hankewich’s tenure.

"Iowa is fortunate to have Maestro Tim Hankewich continue at the helm of its premier orchestra,” says Tim Charles, Orchestra Iowa board president.  “He did not miss a beat as he moved from venue to venue following last summer's flood; demonstrating a perfect blend of musical panache and community mindedness.

"Maestro Hankewich has invigorated the orchestra, encouraged budding musicians and inspired growing audiences with majestic and versatile performances ranging from Beethoven at Brucemore to the Eagles' greatest hits at Kernel’s Stadium."

Hankewich was recently selected as one of four finalists for the music director position with the Niagara Symphony in Niagara Falls, Canada. If chosen, he would conduct both organizations, commuting to Canada, while maintaining his principal residence in Cedar Rapids.