Chicago clarifies its offer to Muti

In the wake of an Italian newspaper report that Riccardo Muti was considering “an offer” from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Chicago Symphony has sought to clarify that it did not offer him the job of music director, which will be open next year after Daniel Barenboim departs.

Instead, says Deborah R. Card, president of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Assn., the orchestra has invited Muti to appear as a guest conductor.

“We have very much wanted him to return to Chicago. That seems likelier now that he seems to have some more time on his hands,” she told the Chicago Tribune this week, referring to Muti’s recent decision to step down after 19 years as music director at La Scala in Milan.