Anna Kuwabara, the executive director of the Albany Symphony, has announced her resignation, effective January 31, 2024.
Kuwabara, who joined the Albany Symphony in July 2017, played a crucial role during her tenure. She coincided her first day with the launch of Water Music New York, a celebration of the Erie Canal’s bicentennial through a series of free community concerts across the state. Her departure will be followed by the Symphony’s Board of Directors initiating the search for a new executive director.
Faith Takes, Chair of the Albany Symphony Board of Directors, expressed gratitude for Kuwabara’s leadership and dedication over her six-and-a-half-year stint. Under her guidance, the organization deepened its ties within the Capital Region community, initiated inclusion, diversity, equity, and access efforts, underwent two strategic planning processes, and navigated negotiations for two collective bargaining agreements with the Albany Musicians’ Association.
Kuwabara, alongside the management team, orchestra musicians, and David Alan Miller, successfully steered the Albany Symphony through the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the absence of in-person concert audiences, the power of music was upheld and continued to resonate within homes.
David Alan Miller, the Music Director and Conductor, acknowledged Anna Kuwabara’s invaluable contributions. “We all appreciate Anna’s hard work, dedication, and kindness over the past several years, particularly her inspired leadership guiding our orchestra through the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic. I wish her the very best on her next endeavor,” Miller stated.
Anna Kuwabara is appreciative for her time with the Albany Symphony, remarking on the extraordinary nature of the organization and the Capital Region. She spoke of her fondness for the staff, talented musicians, David Alan Miller, the dedicated Board, Vanguard volunteers, and loyal Symphony supporters. She will hold the Albany Symphony close to her heart as it approaches its 100th anniversary.
Throughout Kuwabara’s tenure, the Albany Symphony spearheaded several projects and initiatives that enriched the community, expanded the boundaries of classical music, and brought recognition and acclaim to the Capital Region. These initiatives included an invitation for the Albany Symphony to perform at the Kennedy Center’s SHIFT Festival in Washington, D.C., commemorating the WWI Armistice Centennial, and hosting the Sing Out! New York Festival to celebrate New York State’s leading role as a champion of civil liberties. Additionally, the 2019-2020 Season celebrated Phenomenal Women in Music, and the Convergence initiative aimed to explore and build relationships with Black cultural arts, culminating in the 2023 Convergence American Music Festival. The Albany Symphony also introduced the Soundtrack New York Film Music Festival, showcasing extraordinary music from classic films, video games, and popular movies. The organization secured its second GRAMMY win for Christopher Theofanidis’ Viola Concerto featuring Richard O’Neill.
The Albany Symphony is a renowned music institution celebrating its commitment to enriching the community through exceptional orchestral performances and engaging initiatives. For more information, visit albanysymphony.com/
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