THE SYMPOSIUM
When I accepted the offer to become the managing director of Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (then Music for Youth) back in 1988, I was definitely a rookie. A rookie who was okay in some fairly basic business skills but painfully short on knowledge about music, the world of music, the youth orchestra world and fundraising. Hmmm—then why, exactly, DID they hire me? I quickly figured out that I had absolutely no time to ponder that question—nor lots of others. I needed to begin the real work of running the youth orchestra program. It was an exhausting task! One of my very first strategies was to make plans to attend a League of American Orchestras (then the American Symphony Orchestra League—with its very bad acronym) annual conference.
My game plan was to become immersed in youth orchestra lore, hang out with other youth orchestra folks, quickly learn who the stars in the field were and—hopefully—soak up some sorely needed nitty-gritty knowledge. It was a good plan. The conference was excellent (albeit not as focused on music education as I might have hoped). My colleagues were eager to mentor, share and network. I came back to Milwaukee with renewed energy, a tremendous respect for the work of my fellow managers and their organizations, and a vast supply of great, new ideas (some of which we’re still trying to find time to implement 22 years later!) I’m still learning and always eager to get together with folks in the arts education world to swap ideas, hear some “big thoughts,” and dream about new directions we might take. I know that the accumulated wisdom of my colleagues will help make MYSO stronger and will help me become a more effective leader.
And—in that same vein—here’s an opportunity that shouldn’t be missed! For anyone whose life revolves around kids, arts, education and grant writing cycles, the Thr!ve Symposium is a must. Learn, talk, collaborate, share, enjoy, see and hear what’s going on in this important world. The Symposium is an incredible bargain in every regard—and sure to be a highlight in your season. It’s coming up quickly, so please check it out NOW—www.thriveyoutharts.org —and make your plans to be part of this exciting couple of days!
Fran Richman, Executive Director
Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra