BLOOMINGTON -- The Illinois Symphony has renewed its contract with music director Karen Lynne Deal.

Carole Ringer, new president of the symphony board, said the board is pleased to have another multi-year agreement with Deal.

"Karen has been tireless in her efforts both on and off the podium - engaging audiences, educating youth and adults, and offering us rich artistic experiences - and we look forward to a wonderful season together, beginning with the State Fair and parks concerts this summer and our Masterworks series in September," Ringer said in a statement issued late Thursday afternoon.

"At a time when orchestras around the country are going out of business, I am so pleased that we are excelling in our efforts to bring great music to Central Illinois," Deal said in the same statement. "I love this orchestra and I am grateful and eager to continue our forward momentum."

Also elected to the symphony board were Jane Schachtsiek, vice president, administration; Larry Eggan, vice president, development; Roger Hunt, vice president, marketing; Marty Paludan, secretary; and Debbie Ringer, treasurer.

Elected to new or renewed board terms were Dennis Brtva, Elaine Cousins, Nichol DelGiorno, Victoria Nichols-Johnson, Carolyn Oxtoby, Rex Schaeffer and John Wohlwend. Returning directors are Wilma Beatty, Rick Williams, Ralph Hahn, Emily Schlenker, and Guild presidents Cathy Albert and Kathryn Ransom.

The 2009-2010 season opens Sept. 25 in Bloomington with a performance that celebrates Deal's 10th anniversary as music director.

The symphony will perform a free pops concert in Bloomington at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 5 at Miller Park.

Several months ago, a self-appointed committee of musicians returned a no-confidence vote in Deal, saying she was inconsistent in her conducting and had poor rehearsal management. Deal never commented publicly on the vote.