Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra Presents “American Enginuity”February 21, 2026 at the Garde Arts Center
NEW LONDON, CT – The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra (ECSO) will present “American Enginuity,” a concert celebrating innovation on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 7:30 PM at the Garde Arts Center in New London.
The evening’s centerpiece is Anthony DiLorenzo’s trumpet concerto American Enginuity featuring ECSO Principal Trumpet Phil Snedecor. Composed specifically with Snedecor in mind and premiered by him with the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra in 2019, the concerto pays tribute to four of America’s greatest achievements: the transcontinental railroad, the Wright Brothers’ historic flight, Henry Ford’s Model T, and the Apollo 11 moon landing. This performance marks a special homecoming for a work created for one of the ECSO’s own.
The concert opens with the iconic main theme from Elmer Bernstein’s score for the 1960 film The Magnificent Seven, a melody familiar to generations of Americans. Also featured on the program is American Rhapsody for violin and orchestra by Kenneth Fuchs, professor of composition at the University of Connecticut, written in 2008. The work will showcase the talents of ECSO Concertmaster Stephen Tieszen.The program continues with Antonín Dvořák’s American Suite, composed in 1894-95 during the Czech composer’s influential American period. Rounding out the evening is Carmen Dragon’s arrangement of “Shenandoah,” the beloved Missouri River folk song that has become an enduring part of the American musical landscape.
Featured Artist: Phil Snedecor, ECSO Principal Trumpet
Former Baltimore Symphony Orchestra member Phil Snedecor has been a driving presence in the Baltimore, MD and Washington, DC area for over 25 years. He is the co-founder and Artistic Director of the Washington Symphonic Brass, the Contractor for the Opera/Show/Ballet Orchestra at Wolf Trap, and has written a series of brass etude books that are required repertoire at many colleges and conservatories. His arrangements and compositions have been performed throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia.Phil attended the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, and has held one year positions with the National Symphony, the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra, and the Baltimore Opera. Mr. Snedecor has performed and toured throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Recently Mr. Snedecor has been in demand as a guest principal with the Pittsburgh Ballet Orchestra and the Louisville Orchestra, and as guest trumpeter for the Albany Symphony, Boston Pops, and Boston Symphony. He has recorded under the RCA, CBS, Gothic, Koss, and Summit labels. Phil’s solo CDs, The Lyrical Trumpet I and II are also available on the Summit Label. Phil is currently Professor of Trumpet at The Hartt School of the University of Hartford.
Featured Artist: Stephan Tieszen, ECSO Concertmaster
Stephan Tieszen has been concertmaster of the ECSO since 1988. He has degrees from Mannes College of Music, the Juilliard School, and Yale School of Music. His teachers included 2 of the greatest concertmasters of the 20th century, Mischa Mischakoff and Sidney Harth, and Sally Thomas, the heir to Ivan Galamian and the leading proponent of the Franco-Belgian school. Dr. Tieszen also plays period instruments and studied Baroque violin with Jaap Schroeder and the manuscripts of Mozart with Gabriel Banat. He frequently performs the Mozart concerti and writes his own cadenzas in classical style.
He is also the Concertmaster of Opera Theater Connecticut, the New Britain Symphony, and principal second violin and alternate Concertmaster of the New Haven Symphony Orchestra. Dr. Tieszen is an avid chamber musician and performs regularly throughout Connecticut with ensembles from the ECSO, NHSO, and NBSO.
He has taught at the University of Connecticut, Connecticut College, Fairfield University, the Suzuki Music Schools of Westport and Orange, and Mannes Prep.
Where: Garde Arts Center, 325 State Street, New London, CT
Tickets: $32 to $84 plus fees
About the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra
The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra’s mission is to inspire, educate, and connect communities through live orchestral music. Under Toshiyuki Shimada’s distinguished leadership, the ECSO has become a cornerstone of the region’s cultural landscape, presenting world-class performances that bring together exceptional musicians and devoted audiences.
Contact
For season tickets and complete program information, visit ectsymphony.com or call (860) 443-2876.
Holiday concert celebrates the season with festive classics and special guest vocalist
NEW LONDON, CT – The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Music Director and Conductor Toshiyuki Shimada, invites the community to celebrate the season at its Holiday Spectacular on Saturday, December 6th at 3:00 PM at the Garde Arts Center in New London.
This beloved holiday performance features the full symphony orchestra, the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus, and the New London High School Chorus along with special guest Chris Faison, an acclaimed Broadway vocalist whose powerful voice and captivating stage presence have delighted audiences across the country.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the SubTones, an a cappella group of employees from General Dynamics Electric Boat will perform seasonal selections in the Garde Arts Center lobby before the concert, creating a welcoming pre-show celebration for all attendees.
The concert program will feature a festive selection of holiday classics, beloved carols, and seasonal favorites that capture the spirit of the season.
CONCERT DETAILS:
What: Holiday Spectacular
When: Saturday, December 6, 2025, 3:00 PM
Where: Garde Arts Center, 325 State Street, New London, CT 06320
Tickets: $32 to $84 plus fees
Purchase: Available at https://gardearts.org/series/ecso/
ABOUT CHRISTOPHER FAISON
Christopher Faison has been called “silken voiced,” “ a stage dynamo” and “downright thrilling.” His singing has been called “muscular” his acting, “impassioned”. He provides some “powerhouse moments.” Christopher has been entertaining audiences across the globe for over three decades. He made his mark as a local favorite at an early age, having garnered high praise as a student at the Norwich Free Academy. There he performed in numerous choir concerts, made us laugh in “The Robber Bridegroom” (Clemment Musgrove) and brought down the house in “Dreamgirls” (James Thunder Early). He was auditioned for the Connecticut All-State Choir Competition, placing 4th out of 122 Tenors. He represented the state in the All- New England Choir where he was a featured soloist. Upon graduation, he attended Shenandoah Conservatory of Shenandoah University where he appeared in “The Little Princess” (Ram Dass) and “The Mikado” (Ensemble). Under the direction of Grammy Award Winner Michael Forest, he won the 1st place Award for Musical Theater College Male, by the National Association of Teachers of Singing, and the 2nd Place Award for Musical Theater College Male for the Mid- Atlantic Region. In 1998 Christopher became a member of the world organization Up with People, where he was a featured singer, and performed in Austria, Belgium, France and Japan in addition to 25 of the United States. He returned to Connecticut where he was an integral part of the inception of the ‘Best Production Company’ and the ‘Spirit of Broadway Theater’. He appeared in several World and New England premiers, among his favorites: “Still Life with Iris,” (Memory Mender) “The Bridge Burner” (James) and “Songs for A New World” (Man One). In 2003, he auditioned for Royal Caribbean Productions, and began a decade long tenure as a Featured Singer and Vocal Captain. In 2005, he was cast in “Smokey Joe’s Cafe” by Phoenix Theater, in Phoenix, Arizona and received an AriZoni Award for his performance. That same year, he became a member of Actors Equity Association, the union for professional working Actors and Stage Managers. In 2013, he made his cabaret debut with his self-contained cabaret, “Mine Eyes Have Seen”. He soon after was cast in the 1st National Tour of the Tony Award Winning Musical, “The Book of Mormon”. While on tour, he began teaching masterclasses to young and aspiring actors around the country. After touring with “The Book of Mormon” for 3 years, he continued writing and performing cabarets with “This Christmas” and “Next Year, Baby”. He made his directorial debut with “Songs for A New World” in 2017 for the Chestnut Street Playhouse, and the following year he was cast in the ‘Loverly’ Quartet in the Broadway revival of “My Fair Lady” marking his Broadway debut. He understudied and performed the role of Freddy Eyensford-Hill and appeared on the Tony Awards; The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and is featured on the cast album. Upon closing “My Fair Lady” Faison joined the 1st National Touring company of “Hello, Dolly” where he understudied and performed the role of Cornelius Hackl. Following the pandemic shutdown, he pivoted from performing to teaching and established himself as an online Vocal Coach. He also used that time to write and debut his long anticipated cabaret “Here and Now: The Music of Luther Vandross”. In September of 2021, he was recruited to play Riff in a new staging of “West Side Story” in Helsinki, Finland. Afterwards, he joined the company of the 1st National Tour of “My Fair Lady” reprising his role in the ‘Loverly’ Quartet. Faison was then hired to teach Acting/Singing masterclasses to students in the British Virgin Islands. In 2022, he was hired as the Musical Director for Music Theatre Philly’s production of “SpongeBob SquarePants:
The Broadway Musical” and appeared as Ton Ton Julian in the Barrymore Award Winning Production of “Once on This Island” at the Arden Theatre. He continued performing his acclaimed cabaret “Here and Now: The Music of Luther Vandross”, to sold out audiences in Connecticut, and Mexico, and for the Vandross estate in New York City. Upon his return to Connecticut, Christopher joined ActUp Theater in Hartford, where he served as an Acting/Audition Masterclass instructor. He recently made headlines as the director of the Chestnut Street Playhouse’s record breaking production of “Once on This Island” the first BIPOC led production in the theatre’s history. Christopher is a proud member of Actors Equity Association, the union for professional actors and stage managers in the United States. He makes his home in Connecticut.
ABOUT THE EASTERN CONNECTICUT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra’s mission is to inspire, educate, and connect communities through live orchestral music. Under Toshiyuki Shimada’s distinguished leadership, the ECSO has become a cornerstone of the region’s cultural landscape, presenting world-class performances that bring together exceptional musicians and devoted audiences.
Contact
For season tickets and complete program information, visit ectsymphony.com or call (860) 443-2876.
The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra Welcomes Caitlin Meyer as New Executive Director
New London, CT – August 7, 2025 – The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra (ECSO) is proud to announce the appointment of Connecticut native Caitlin Meyer as its new Executive Director. A dynamic leader in arts education and orchestral advocacy, Caitlin returns to the ECSO with a full-circle story: as a young flutist, she was a member of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Youth Orchestra, where her lifelong passion for classical music was first sparked.
Caitlin brings to the ECSO over 15 years of experience as a music educator, program director, and community arts advocate, most recently serving as Director of Education for the Springfield Symphony Orchestra. There, she led a robust portfolio of community engagement and youth programming, including the revival of the acclaimed Educational Connections Concert Series, which brought thousands of students from Springfield and beyond to Symphony Hall.
In addition to her administrative expertise, Caitlin’s career spans from Connecticut classrooms to global stages. Her leadership roles include the Pegasus California School in Qingdao, China as well as major educational institutions across the U.S. Known for her creative problem-solving and commitment to equity in the arts, she has designed curriculum, managed large-scale programs, and developed pathways to bring music into underserved communities.
“Coming home to the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra feels deeply meaningful,” said Caitlin. “This is the organization that shaped my early love for orchestral music. I’m honored to now lead it forward—strengthening our community impact, supporting the musicians, and creating memorable and inclusive concert experiences for all.”
Raised in southeastern Connecticut and now returning as a seasoned leader, Caitlin brings both personal history and professional vision to her new role. Her journey—from youth orchestra musician to international arts educator—embodies the transformative power of music and the vital role that regional arts organizations play in shaping lives. A proud member of the Advocacy Leadership Initiative and the Music Education Policy Roundtable for the National Association for Music Education, she continues her love of music education through serving as adjunct faculty for her beloved master’s alma mater, the University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford.
Newly elected Board President Jonathan Nickerson shared: “Caitlin’s blend of visionary leadership and heartfelt connection to our orchestra’s legacy makes her the ideal person to lead ECSO into its next chapter. Her background as a performer, educator, and advocate gives her the rare ability to unite artistic excellence with community relevance.”
ECSO Music Director Toshiyuki Shimada, now entering his 16th season with the orchestra, shared his excitement for the year ahead: “As we embark on an exciting new season, I’m delighted to welcome Caitlin Meyer as our Executive Director. Her deep ties to this orchestra and her forward-thinking leadership are arriving at just the right moment. I look forward to collaborating with her as we bring powerful performances and renewed energy to our audiences—beginning with our season opener on October 4th, featuring Elgar’s passionate Violin Concerto with ECSO Instrumental Competition winner Nick Hammel, and the timeless beauty of Brahms’ Haydn Variations.”
As the ECSO looks ahead to an exciting new season, Caitlin Meyer’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to artistic innovation, educational outreach, and community partnership, nearly 80 years in the making for Eastern Connecticut.
For more information about the ECSO and upcoming performances, please visitwww.ectsymphony.com.
Photo Credit Sunshine Photography Forever, LLC
New ECSO Executive Coordinator Announced – 9.18.23 Contact: Caleb Bailey, [email protected]; 860-443-2876
New ECSO Executive Coordinator Announced The ECSO is pleased to announce the appointment of Emma Bocciarelli to the full-time position of Executive Coordinator. Reporting to the Executive Director, this role is a crucial part of the ECSO team through patron relations, marketing and design, office management, and event coordination.
Upon notice of her appointment, Emma had the following statement:” I am beyond grateful to be joining ECSO as the Executive Coordinator. Coming from a musical family, I have loved it since a young age. The arts are extremely important, and I admire what everyone here at ECSO has accomplished. I am excited to move forward with the symphony’s mission and meet the rest of the ECSO community.”
Caleb Bailey, ECSO’s Executive Director, will work closely with Emma to execute the ECSO’s mission to “Inspire, Educate, and Connect our communities through live orchestral music.”
“Getting to know Emma through the interview process has been a great experience. She has the skills, personality, and passion for music, all of which are necessary to accomplish what we are working towards with our organization,” Bailey remarked.
Emma Bocciarelli bio:
Emma Bocciarelli is a 2023 graduate from the University of Connecticut with degrees in Business Management and Piano Performance. She immensely enjoyed her piano studies with Dr. Angelina Gadeliya. Emma was a recipient of the EB Storrs Piano Scholarship, studied music abroad and performed in various masterclasses with Renana Gutman, Vladimir Valjarevic, Yoshi Akimoto, Yi-heng Yang, and the Takacs Quartet.
In spring of 2023, Emma completed an internship at The Bushnell Performing Arts Center in Hartford, CT, with a focus in marketing and customer relations. Currently, Emma is the Music Director at Putnam Congregational Church, as well as pianist for the Shoreline Chorale, Eastern CT Performing Arts Association Community Voices, and the Tim Fioravanti Jazz Orchestra.
Emma continues to perform, collaborate, and teach while traveling and enjoying time with family, friends, and her three dogs.
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The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to announce our 2023-24 season lineup, curated by Music Director & Conductor Toshiyuki Shimada. Season highlights include the 100th Anniversary of Rhapsody in Blue, The Tom Brown 6, the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus singing Haydn’s Lord Nelson’s Mass, and international guest artists. From early fall to late spring, the 75-plus member professional Symphony Orchestra presents six subscription concerts annually, most of which feature guest soloists. Subscription concerts are primarily performed at the historic award-winning Garde Arts Center on State Street in New London.
Visit ectsymphony.com for more information and follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube) @ectsymphony. In addition to a range of affordable single-ticket options—from $65 to as low as $12—the ECSO offers those under 40 years of age and active or retired military members $12 tickets in selected sections.
Founded in 1946 by Norwegian immigrant Victor Norman, the ECSO is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving the eastern Connecticut region, including New London, Norwich, Waterford, Groton, Mystic, Old Lyme, and East Lyme. Recent concerts in Norwich, Willimantic, and Stonington reflect our renewed dedication to serving a broader area.
Our mission is to inspire, educate, and connect our communities through live orchestral music.
January 25, 2023
CONTACT: CALEB BAILEY, 860-443-2876, [email protected] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The ECSO is pleased to announce the appointment of Gregory Duke to the full-time position of Executive Coordinator. Reporting to the Executive Director, this role is a crucial part of the ECSO team through patron relations, marketing and design, office management, and event coordination.
Upon notice of his appointment, Gregory had the following statement: ”I am thrilled to be joining ECSO as the Executive Coordinator. I have admired the work Caleb, Toshi and everyone at ECSO did over the last couple of years but especially during the pandemic: completing a new website and presenting content that reminds us why it’s important to have quality live music in our little corner of the world. I look forward to meeting more of the ECSO community in the not too distant future.”
Caleb Bailey, ECSO’s Executive Director, will work closely with Greg to execute the ECSO’s mission to “Inspire, Educate, and Connect our communities through live orchestral music.”
“Getting to know Greg through the interview process has been a great experience. He has the skills, personality, and passion for music, all of which are necessary to accomplish what we are working towards with our organization,” Bailey remarked.
Gregory Duke bio:
Known for his compassionate dedication, Gregory Duke is a vocalist and music educator born in Austin, Texas. He has shared his passion for music in classrooms across the world and has taught in several countries and states in the US.
In his early years, Gregory’s family was actively involved in the arts. He then was involved in middle school and high school band (Alto Sax) and choir (Tenor). Gregory has a BA in Choral Music from the University of Texas at San Antonio and MA in Counseling from Texas A&M. It was during his years as an educator that Greg discovered his interest in supporting young talent and grow young musician into professional musicians. 19 of his former students are currently in collegiate and professional music programs throughout the world and 6 students are working for professional recording studios.
His career in education began as a teaching assistant in Economics where he was responsible for thousands of students. Mr. Duke has taught choral and instrumental music for ten years with various curriculums in Texas, Mexico, United Kingdom, Hawaii, Arizona, and now Connecticut. His passion for aiding others led him toward a position with Family Services where he worked with Residential Youth Offenders. During his time in Mexico, he taught piano as a project for providing education to at risk communities. Mr. Duke became a choir teacher in San Antonio, where he learned the BASIS Model, Saxon Curriculum, and STEAM project based learning. In England, he taught EdExcel and Oxford Music at Key Stage 3, 4, and 5. In Hawaii he taught native ukulele and choir, afterwards received a position teaching Band and Choir in Arizona. He has taught Music GCSE and A Levels, Choir, Band, Digital Music, Tech Theatre, Economics, Pre Algebra, and AP Psychology.
Gregory resides in East Lyme with his spouse and an energetic 14-pound dog. His involvement with the San Antonio Master Singers made him a great addition to the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus. He enjoys a wide variety of activities such as cooking, decorating 3D cakes, cycling nature trails, camping, hiking, painting, playing table-top/ active games, carpentry and get involved in creative projects and extracurricular activities for community growth.
“Music is a powerful communication tool that seems instinctual, described as an internal connection we, as a species, have with universal rhythmic and melodic patterns. Memories can be retrieved with the use of music, without being present during the original encoding. This is caused because it is used as a medium of idiosyncratic expression which continues through oral tradition and survives through social interactions.
This form of creative exploration can assist in motivation, self-identity, sublimation, and other benefits which can be provided to the community. It’s a way to reach out and understand the internal struggles of others, in order to provide help where it is needed. There are cycles within families which can last for generations; and music, if allowed, can provide the hope needed for a better future.” ECSO general copy:
We are thrilled to announce our 76th Anniversary Season’s lineup, curated by Music Director
and Conductor Toshiyuki Shimada. This season marks the 13th year under the musical leadership of Music Director and Conductor Toshiyuki Shimada. Visit www.ectsymphony.com for more information and follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube) @ectsymphony. The ECSO offers a range of affordable seating options from $65 to as low as $12 for attendance to one concert. The ECSO will continue to offer those under 40 years of age and active or retired military members $12 tickets in premium sections.
Founded in 1946 by Norwegian immigrant, Victor Norman, the mission of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra is to inspire, educate, and connect our communities through live orchestral music.
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December 28, 2022
CONTACT: CALEB BAILEY, 860-443-2876, [email protected] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus (ECSC) Appoints New Director, Dr. Daniel McDavitt
Following a recent search for a new director, the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus (ECSC) has appointed Dr. Daniel McDavitt as its Director. Dr. McDavitt succeeds past ECSC Director Wendy Moy.
Upon notification of his selection, Daniel had the following statement: ” I am thrilled to join the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra team. I was so impressed with the Chorus’s zeal for performing major choral-orchestral works, and their eagerness to revive the ensemble following an extended pandemic-related hiatus. I’m a big believer in the role choral music has in a community. As the English conductor John Rutter put it, “It’s something that goes to the very heart of our humanity, our sense of community, and our souls.” I look forward to working with the Chorus, the Orchestra, and Maestro Shimada to be part of contributing music of the highest quality to our community.”
Daniel will lead the Chorus in preparation for their classical concert appearance with the ECSO on Saturday, March 18, 2023. Additionally, he will prepare and direct the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus for their concerts in the fall and winter.
His musical enthusiasm and approach to rehearsing is part of what made him stand out in the interview and audition with Chorus singers. Dr. McDavitt was quoted as saying, “my rehearsals go far beyond learning notes. We talk about the music, its meaning, history, and context. Above all, I aim to inspire the singers to seek deep, personal meaning in the music we perform. If done with enthusiasm and openness, this kind of preparation has the potential to produce unforgettable, life-altering performances for singers and audience members alike.”
Joining the Chorus:
If you would like to join the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus, please reach out to Chorus President, Kathy Walburn at [email protected] to learn more about this ensemble. Rehearsals are Wednesday evenings in New London. There’s nothing quite like the experience of singing in a group and joining an orchestra onstage to perform symphonic works and we hope you’ll consider joining us if you like to sing!
Upcoming performance opportunities include singing with the ECSO on the Garde Arts Center stage in March 2023.
About Dr. Daniel McDavitt:
Dr. Daniel McDavitt is Director of Cadet Vocal Music at the United States Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, and Director of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus. He previously held faculty appointments at Goucher College, Loyola University, and Knox College. As a composer, his music is published by Walton Music, E. C. Schirmer, and Gentry Publications, and has received commissions from numerous choral organizations, including a 2018 commission from Barlow Endowment for Music Composition. He frequently presents his research at the Oxford Conducting Institute at the University of Oxford and was honored with Goucher College’s Excellence in Teaching Award in 2017.
About the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus:
The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus (ECSC)was founded as a subsidiary of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra in 1967 with Connecticut College Choral Director James F. Armstrong directing. The ECSC is comprised of approximately 60 volunteer, auditioned singers of all ages. They perform with the ECSO annually in a subscription concert as well as independently in choral repertoire concerts, a December holiday concert, and Palm Sunday concerts in Norwich.
ECSO general copy:
We are thrilled to announce our 22-23 Season lineup, curated by Music Director and Conductor
Toshiyuki Shimada. Season highlights include Grammy-award-winning cellist Sara Sant’Ambrogio performing the Elgar Cello Concerto in October, the return of the New London Big Band in January, the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus singing in Brahms’ A German Requiem, and the Earth Day Celebration concert in April. From early fall to late spring, the 75-plus member professional Symphony Orchestra presents six subscription concerts annually, most of which feature guest soloists. Subscription concerts are performed at the historic award-winning Garde Arts Center on State Street in New London.
Visit www.ectsymphony.com for more information and follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube) @ectsymphony. The ECSO offers a range of affordable seating options from $65 to as low as $12 for attendance to one concert. The ECSO will continue to offer those under 40 years of age and active or retired military members $12 tickets in premium sections. ECSO is also active in promoting music education in New London by offering educational programs, watch our website for details.
Founded in 1946 by Norwegian immigrant, Victor Norman, the mission of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra is to inspire, educate, and connect our communities through live orchestral music.
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November 28, 2022
CONTACT: CALEB BAILEY, 860-443-2876, [email protected] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra is seeking a creative and energetic professional to serve as Executive Coordinator. This is a wonderful opportunity to support one of Connecticut’s premier professional symphony orchestras in its next phase of growth. Under the leadership of Executive Director, Caleb Bailey, an imaginative and dynamic maestro – Toshiyuki Shimada, and the Board of Directors, the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra’s mission is to “inspire, educate, and connect our communities through live orchestral music.”
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Executive Coordinator will be responsible for the overall business operation of the symphony office, including the box office, front-of-house operations, education programs, and events. Front-facing people skills are essential in this position and used daily, through interfacing with patrons, donors, venue staff, Board members, and other contacts in fast-moving events and scenarios. This position also leads the recruitment and management of student interns that assist the ECSO in various departments.
The Executive Coordinator will also be integrally involved in coordinating the symphony’s annual giving efforts, including phone and mail solicitations, donor tracking, and event planning. Additionally, the person in this position will have the opportunity to spearhead or collaborate on marketing materials and social media efforts.
The successful candidate must be passionate about music and will hold at least an Associate’s degree and/or have at least 3 years of experience in an administrative role. Excellent oral and written communication skills, organizational and systems thinking, and an ability to work collaboratively with a range of constituencies are essential. Past non-profit experience also preferred.
Facility with or a demonstrated ability to learn a variety of office systems and software, including Microsoft Office Suite (Access, Word, Excel, Publisher) and Adobe Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Premiere) required. Knowledge of or experience with marketing, design, online software (such as Canva or Constant Contact), and/or customer relationship management databases a considerable plus. This is a full-time position with a salary range of $40,000 – $45,000 per year depending on experience.
Office hours are 9am to 5pm, with some nights and weekends required. While this is not a remote work position, some flexibility may be arranged for remote work on occasion. This position requires the candidate to be in the New London office and at events. For full job description, visit the ECSO website – www.ectsymphony.com.
Please submit résumé, at least one professional reference, and cover letter to Caleb Bailey at [email protected], or mail in application materials to ECSO, c/o Caleb Bailey, 289 State St., New London, CT 06320.
About the ECSO:
The mission of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra is to “inspire, educate, and connect our communities through live orchestral music.”
The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving the eastern Connecticut and western Rhode Island region. Recent concerts in Norwich and Willimantic reflect our renewed dedication to serving a broader area. New London, where the ECSO office is located, is a community with a growing arts scene.
The ECSO typically offers a season of 6 classical concerts, an adult chorus, youth ensembles/orchestra, plus special programming and educational offerings. ECSO musicians are drawn from the excellent artist pool available locally as well as New Haven, Hartford, Providence, New York City, Boston area. A number of the musicians are current or former members of the United States Coast Guard Band, which is located in New London. The orchestra has about 65 contracted musicians, and its annual budget is $700,000.
The ECSO is committed to creating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, parental status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.
Don’t check off every box in the requirements listed above? Please apply anyway! We are building an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible workplace that fosters a sense of belonging – so if you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to still consider submitting an application.
This December, the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra musicians are venturing out beyond the Garde Arts Center main stage.
First off, in honor of the ongoing “Sargent, Whistler, and Venetian Glass” exhibit, the ECSO string trio will be performing at the Mystic Seaport Museum Meeting House on December 8th. Bask in the warm glow of luminary lanterns while enjoying a concert of Italian-inspired music. Tickets include access to the Sargent, Whistler, and Venetian Glass exhibit until 5:00 pm. The hour-long concert begins at 5:30 pm.
Admission is $15 for seaport members, and $30 for non-members. And ECSO subscribers will receive the $15 discounted price by calling 860.572.5331 and mentioning they are a subscriber.
Then, to help us get into the holiday spirit, on December 17th at 2:30 pm, the ECSO brass quintet will be spreading holiday cheer through music! Come join us for a family concert at the beautiful Harkness Chapel, located on Connecticut College’s campus.
The brass quintet will play classics like Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and many more. Choir members from Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School will perform What a Wonderful World, What the World Needs Now is Love and they will join the brass quintet and audience for a sing-along to wrap a bow on the concert. General admission is $8, and tickets information can be found on our website: ectsymphony.com/family-holiday-concert/
Tell your family and bring your friends to this delightful seasonal concert featuring musicians from your Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra and members of the New London public school community.
Accessibility: The main floor of the chapel is wheelchair-accessible, with a ramp and railing at the main entrance, and there is an accessible restroom on that floor.
ECSO general copy:
We are thrilled to announce our 22-23 Season lineup, curated by Music Director and Conductor Toshiyuki Shimada. Season highlights include the return of the New London Big Band in January, the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus singing in Brahms’ A German Requiem, and the Earth Day Celebration concert in April. From early fall to late spring, the 75-plus member professional Symphony Orchestra presents six subscription concerts annually, most of which feature guest soloists. Subscription concerts are performed at the historic award-winning Garde Arts Center on State Street in New London.
Visit www.ectsymphony.com for more information and follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube) @ectsymphony. The ECSO offers a range of affordable seating options from $65 to as low as $12 for attendance to one concert. The ECSO will continue to offer those under 40 years of age and active or retired military members $12 tickets in premium sections. ECSO is also active in promoting music education in New London by offering educational programs, watch our website for details.
Founded in 1946 by Norwegian immigrant, Victor Norman, the mission of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra is to inspire, educate, and connect our communities through live orchestral music.
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The official newsletter of the ECSO is mailed throughout the year to patrons and friends of the ECSO. Each issue includes the latest news, upcoming events, and behind-the-scenes stories on all things ECSO. If you would like to be included in the next mailing, contact us at [email protected].
This issueincludes:
A Message from Toshiyuki Shimada Season Preview Youth Orchestra & String Ensemble Musicians of the Orchestra – Lisa Gray A Message from Caleb Can we become better people by listening to Music? Welcome message by ECSO Board President
“Conduct Us” POSTPONED indefinitely, originally scheduled for October 2, 2022, 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM, Hygienic Art Park
Due to forecasted high winds from remnants of Hurricane Ian, the originally scheduled “Conduct Us” which was to occur this Sunday, October 2nd will be postponed to a later date. While we are disappointed in this development, we want the best weather to allow for as many attendees and participants as possible to enjoy this experience. We will publicize widely once the new date is identified.
“Conduct Us” started when the ECSO participated in the international Make Music Day movement, which brings free, community-wide, outdoor musical celebrations to hundreds of cities worldwide! We last held this fun community event in Mystic River Park and we are delighted to bring it to New London with a rescheduled date in the future.
2022-23 Season general copy:
We are thrilled to announce our 22-23 Season lineup, curated by Music Director and Conductor Toshiyuki Shimada. Season highlights include Grammy-award-winning cellist Sara Sant’Ambrogio performing the Elgar Cello Concerto in October, the return of the New London Big Band in January, the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus singing in Brahms’ German Requiem, and the Earth Day Celebration concert in April. From early fall to late spring, the 75-plus member professional Symphony Orchestra presents six subscription concerts annually, most of which feature guest soloists. Subscription concerts are performed at the historic award-winning Garde Arts Center on State Street in New London.
Visit www.ectsymphony.com for more information and follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube) @ectsymphony. In addition to a range of affordable single-ticket options from $65 to as low as $12, the ECSO also offers those under 40 years of age and active or retired military members $12 tickets in selected sections.
Founded in 1946 by Norwegian immigrant, Victor Norman, the ECSO is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving the eastern Connecticut region, including New London, Norwich, Waterford, Groton, Mystic, Old Lyme, and East Lyme. Recent concerts in Norwich, Willimantic, and Stonington reflect our renewed dedication to serving a broader area. Our mission is to inspire, educate, and connect our communities through live orchestral music.
