The Vancouver Opera has announced the retirement of longtime trombonist Sharman King, principal trumpeter Tom Shorthouse, and chorus member Bette Cosar.

King joined the Vancouver Opera Orchestra in 1977 and has performed in productions of “West Side Story” and “Nixon China.”

In an official press statement, he said,  “my favorite aspect of being involved with the VO was our continued collective success,” said the trombonist, who will continue to play, teach and continue his volunteer work where he will remain active on various trade boards, civic and artistic

Shorthouse joined the Vancouver Opera Orchestra in 1992 and took over the top trumpeter spot in 1995. He has participated, over 30 years, in such productions as “Nixon in China,” “Of Mice and Men,” and ‘Three Penny Opera,” among others.

“The challenge presented by the score of Richard Strauss’s ‘Der Rosenkavalier,’ conducted by Jonathan Darlington, remains my favorite and most satisfying voice production and where I felt the orchestra reached its greatest height musically,” said the trumpeter.

He will continue collaborating with the orchestra and refurbish rental and school-owned brass instruments through his collaboration with Tapestry Music. Meanwhile, King will continue teaching and engage in volunteer work on numerous business, civic, and arts boards.

The company also revealed that Bette Cosar, a member of the chorus was also retiring, following 50 years with the company.