The Future of Orchestra Leaders

While many San Diego State University orchestra students are practicing to become professional musicians, that is not the only career path available to them.

A 2014 School of Music and Dance graduate Teresa Monaco recently discovered this for herself.

Monaco — who is the communications coordinator at Mainly Mozart and also serves as the public affairs specialist for the School of Music and Dance — was recently selected to participate in the League of American Orchestras’ Essentials of Orchestra Management Seminar in Los Angeles. She spent 10 days with 30 experienced participants at the intensive seminar that focused on cultivating leaders in the orchestra management field today.

“I learned there is such a need for what we do and it is really important to have ambassadors who continue bringing this music to people, despite the challenges we may face,” Monaco said.

The art of the orchestra

During the seminar, participants had the opportunity to talk with key figures in the field, learn about the importance of different positions within orchestra administration and even take a private tour of the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Most importantly, Monaco explained it gave her a greater understanding of the importance and need for orchestra in today’s society.

“There really is a need for classical music in a time when technology is becoming all-encompassing,” Monaco said. “People are craving art that makes them feel truly connected to other humans in a way you can’t through the computer or Internet.”

She explained that those at the seminar all play instruments as well, but playing is not the only way to succeed in the industry. As someone who plays the oboe, Monaco had important advice for current orchestra students.

“Just because you love to play, that is not the only way to advocate the arts,” Monaco said. “The cool thing is that you can continue to play on your own but still make just as profound of an impact through arts administration and leadership.”