By TONY TAGLAVORE, Journal Services
Michael Butterman, Music Director and Conductor of the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra since 2005, has cancer.
Last Friday, the Symphony released a three-minute-and-15-second video in which the 57-year-old Butterman announced he has been diagnosed with Lymphoma.
“Hello dear friends,” Butterman began. “I want to let you know that I have recently encountered a health challenge that is going to keep me off of the road for a little bit, as well as perhaps force me to curtail some of my conducting work in the short-term,” Butterman said.
In addition to his work in Shreveport, Butterman is the music director for orchestras in Williamsburg, Virginia, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and Boulder, Colorado.
The Mayo Clinic describes Lymphoma as “a cancer of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is part of the body’s germ-fighting and disease-fighting immune system. Lymphoma begins when healthy cells in the lymphatic system change and grow out of control.”
“I feel very good,” Butterman said. “My doctors are feeling very positive and optimistic about the situation. They tell me they have a very effective treatment, that this is curable, and we are getting right after it. And I’m right there with them in that plan, believe me.”
Butterman said he must watch his energy, stay away from crowds, and “stay put.”
“My expectation is that I will be able to continue the schedule of concerts that we have planned here in Shreveport.”
Butterman added that he will receive his lymphoma treatment in Shreveport.
“I appreciate all the good thoughts and prayers you want to send my way. Believe me, I will gratefully receive them. I can’t thank you enough for your support, and I cant wait to get back to making music for you in the very near future.”
Opening night of the Symphony’s 2024-2025 season is scheduled for September 21st.
Contact Tony at SBJTonyT@gmail.com.