Matthew Epstein, for 24 years associated with the Lyric Opera of Chicago (the last six as artistic director), won’t have his contract renewed at the end of this season. “While few dispute Epstein’s gifts, his blunt manner can ruffle feathers. His lusty “bravos” regularly punctuate Lyric’s performances, but he can make his displeasure known with equal force. “He’s a genius,” said one opera world insider, “but he’s an abrasive genius.”