The longtime Sammamish Symphony Orchestra director officially announced his retirement, due to health reasons, this week.

R. Joseph Scott, a “dynamic leader in the Northwest musical community” for nearly 50 years, was the orchestra’s conductor and music director for more than 15 years, according to a press release.

“Maestro Scott’s musical leadership and dedication will be greatly missed by the Sammamish Symphony Orchestra members and by the many audiences who have been entertained and transported by his artistic excellence,” according to the release.

Scott founded the Bellevue Philharmonic Orchestra and served as the music director, conductor and general manager from 2005-2009.

“He has appeared with numerous musical ensembles, including the Bellevue Opera and has conducted world premieres of works by Alan Hovhaness, Vaclav Nelhybel and various regional composers,” according to the release.

Before moving to Seattle, Scott attended at the University of Oregon School of Music. There he studied conducting with Eugene Furst and Wolfgang Martin of the Portland Opera.

He continued his work with Henry Holt of the Seattle Opera, Mikael Scheremetiew of the Thalia Conservatory and Vilem Sokol of the Seattle Youth Symphony.

Scott’s replacement, Adam Stern, first filled in for Scott in January.

Stern was officially named Scott’s replacement this fall.