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FOX 31 first reported on air this story about the Albany Symphony Conductor Claire Fox Hillard being arrested.

The Albany Symphony released the following statement Friday morning about Claire Fox Hillard:

The board of the Albany Symphony Association met at 5:30 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011 to discuss the future of Conductor, Claire Fox Hillard.  "After carefully considering all aspects of this situation and taking into consideration Dr. Hillard's twenty-four years of dedicated service to the Symphony and to the Albany community, we believe that we have come to an equitable solution."  The board has suspended Dr. Hillard, without salary, through the end of 2011. 

Hillard issued an apology to the board, stating, "I acknowledge that my actions have damaged my reputation in the Albany Community, hurt people and an institution that I love and respect. For this I sincerely apologize.  I seek forgiveness and the opportunity to work to rebuild the trust and respect placed in me over the past 24 years."

The symphony will continue their concert season and will employ guest conductors during the suspension.  "During this time of suspension, it will be Dr. Hillard's responsibility to begin rebuilding the trust and respect so badly damaged by his actions."

The Albany Symphony Board would like to extend our sincerest thanks to our supportive community during this time.