Admin NY

James M. Johnson

Chief Executive Officer
New York Pops
New York, New York
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Years in current position: 8
Years in the field: 21

Majors:
B.A. Music.
M.A. Arts Administration
M.B.A.

Career Path:
Director of Operatons, Martha Graham Dance Company
Director of Operations, Orchestra of St. Luke’s

What are the most surprising, interesting or challenging aspects of your day-to-day work?
The job requires every bit of knowledge I have gained in music and arts administration. People skills are paramount.

What inspired you to work for an orchestra?
I love music.

What was your first step towards an orchestra career?
I volunteered to be an unpaid intern at a local performing arts center. It was a great way to begin.

What advice would you offer to someone considering the orchestra field?
First, love the arts. Second, be prepared to learn, work hard, and struggle at times. Third, find joy in supporting others as they create and interpret works of art.

Any other advice?
Welcome! There is always a place for great people in our field.

Robert Rosoff

Executive Director
Glens Falls Symphony Orchestra
Glens Falls, New York
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Years in current position: 10
Years in the field: 10

Majors:
Biology and Bio-Chemistry

Additional Training:
Aspen Seminar in Artistic Excellence, League of American Orchestras
Orchestra Leadership Academy seminars, League of American Orchestras

Career Path:
I was in retail for 30 years. I was asked to join the Glens Falls Symphony Orchestra  board in 1992, was president 1997-98, and became the first full-time executive in 1998.

What are the most surprising, interesting or challenging aspects of your day-to-day work?
Challenging: Coordinating rehearsal/performance schedules with other orchestras in our region. Interesting: Interacting with others in the field

What inspired you to work for an orchestra?
Life-long love of classical music; extensive management experience in retail.

What advice would you offer to someone considering the orchestra field?
Arts management courses in college/conservatory and the League’s Orchestra Management Fellowship Program.

Any other advice?
Do it.

Audrey Szychulski

Executive Director
Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes
Corning, NY
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Years in current position: 4.5
Years in the field: 10

Majors:
Music Education, Performance
Master’s in Arts Administration

Additional Training:
Indiana Fundrasing Group workshops

Career Path:
Performer, various
Conductor, various 
Manager of Education and Community Partnerships, Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes

What are the most surprising, interesting or challenging aspects of your day-to-day work?
Balancing. We run seven programs on two-and-a-half staff members.

What inspired you to work for an orchestra?
It seemed like a natural progression from traveling musician.

What advice would you offer to someone considering the orchestra field?
As an undergrad, if possible major in Music Business. Look for internships early and be willing to take two if it will get you more experience. Be open to trying all aspects of office work.

Any other advice?
Be prepared for hard work and long hours.