Press Release – ECSO Announces New Executive Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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