Bremerton Symphony conductor and music director John Welsh submitted his resignation just about a year after he was hired to replace Charles Bontrager.

The symphony board of directors accepted Welsh’s letter of resignation, which was effective June 30, on June 19. Two years remained on his contract. Welsh’s resignation put several, new, long-range plans on hold, including pay for orchestra members and expansion of the symphony’s geographical reach.

According to Anita Williams, outgoing board president, there were artistic and philosophical differences between Walsh and the board.

The 2001-02 season will go on, but the soloists and music Welsh had selected is subject to change.

A search for a new director has been underway since Welsh’s resignation.