Violinist Fired from Nonprofits, Faces Fraud Allegations

0:00It's April 15th. This is Kansas News Today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with the story. Keith Stanfield, a violinist and founder of the Opus 76 quartet, just got fired as executive director from a second music nonprofit in, Kansas City. This comes after he was booted from the youth symphony of Kansas City last year for allegedly misusing charitable funds. The latest fallout hit the friends of the Opus 76 quartet foundation, where an internal probe found he dipped into their money for personal use. Earlier this week, the foundation's lawyer confirmed Stanfield's out, and he's no longer even playing with a quartet he started back in 20. 17. That group has performed at big spots like Carnegie Hall and become a top string outfit nationwide. Now the boards tightening up policies to stop any more fraud, and they're suing for full restitution. Over at youth symphony of Kansas City, Stanfield started as artistic director in August 2023, then took the top job in January 20, 24.

1:02They launched a third party investigation right after spotting financial red flags, and are chasing every legal option to get their money back. The ORD pulls in nearly $1 million a year in revenue. Both groups have interim leaders stepping in foundations hiring one now, while YSKC's board chair holds it down through June 30. Youth symphonies also dealing with a discrimination lawsuit from a former employee, adding to the drama around finances and leadership. These nonprofits state committed to music education for kids and community performances, pushing forward despite the mess to rebuild trust and keep them. Beats alive in Kansas City.