Worby

"The orchestra continues to be challenged by our financial situation and the changes we're making were designed to mitigate those challenges," Mr. Worby said Tuesday in a phone interview.

Perlman Leaves Westchester Orchestra Erica Orden 2011

The company has fallen behind in paying Mr. Perlman and its musicians, according to Mr. Worby.

Perlman Leaves Westchester Orchestra Erica Orden 2011

The philharmonic's executive director, Joshua Worby, said the orchestra and Mr. Perlman had "mutually agreed to dissolve the remainder" of the contract.

Perlman Leaves Westchester Orchestra Erica Orden 2011

Over the weekend, the orchestra sent a letter signed by the board president and Mr. Worby to "a small group of stakeholders and major donors," Mr. Worby said, informing them of Mr. Perlman's departure.

Perlman Leaves Westchester Orchestra Erica Orden 2011

"It is literally a daily struggle to make ends meet," Mr. Worby said in November.

Perlman Leaves Westchester Orchestra Erica Orden 2011

Worby was supposed to ask Norman to sing a benefit for her orchestra.

A 2006 Favorite: Opera Diva Jessye Norman 2006

Worby was supposed to ask Norman to sing a benefit for her orchestra.

Opera Diva Norman Brings the Arts Back to Schools 2006

So for this presentation, Worby has a secret weapon.

A 2006 Favorite: Opera Diva Jessye Norman 2006

So for this presentation, Worby has a secret weapon.

Opera Diva Norman Brings the Arts Back to Schools 2006

(Soundbite of applause) CHIDEYA: Worby knew arts education would resonate with Norman.

Opera Diva Norman Brings the Arts Back to Schools 2006