The Annapolis Symphony Orchestra has announced the resignation of Executive Director Patrick J. Nugent, effective September 24, 2019. Dr. Nugent will leave the Symphony to become VP for Individual and Organizational Giving at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
During his four-year tenure with the Symphony, Dr. Nugent returned the organization to financial stability, closing out each of the past two fiscal years with an operating surplus without any draw from the Symphony’s Endowment. In addition, in collaboration with Music Director, José-Luis Novo, who kicks off his 15th season next month, the Symphony has launched numerous artistic and educational initiatives that have increased its exposure in the community, enhanced its artistic relevance, broadened its donor base and deepened its collaborations with other arts organizations.
Maestro Novo noted that “working in close partnership with Patrick, we have succeeded in expanding the Symphony’s artistic reach – establishing a Chamber Series, integrating visual arts into the concert experience and deepening our collaboration with the US Naval Academy that brought its Glee Clubs to Maryland Hall last May to sing Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. This was capped off earlier this year by our becoming an Affiliate organization at the Music Center at Strathmore.”
“It is with mixed feelings that we say goodbye to Patrick,” said Jane Casey, Chair of the Symphony Board of Trustees. “It’s hard not to celebrate with Patrick all that this extraordinary opportunity offers him in new challenges and professional growth. We send him off to Chicago knowing the Symphony has flourished under his leadership and, today, enjoys a solid artistic and financial foundation that will present a compelling opportunity for a new Executive Director.”
Reflecting on his time with the Symphony, Dr. Nugent noted his “gratitude to the generous donors who have been the engine of our transformation. Working with visionary donors at every level who are committed to bringing the world’s greatest music to their own doorstep has been a privilege and a joy.” Jill Kidwell, Chair of the Development Committee further noted, “Patrick’s passionate advocacy and responsible stewardship have fostered confidence in the Symphony’s future that allows us to enjoy a generous and growing group of donors who are committed to helping us achieve our vision.”
Under Dr. Nugent’s leadership, the Symphony’s education programs have brought music to thousands of youth through its Concerts for Schoolchildren, Music Van program and Performing & Visual Arts Partnership with Bates Middle School. With the 2018 launch of the Annapolis Symphony Academy, the Symphony undertook its most ambitious initiative yet. Under the direction of Dr. Netanel Draiblate, the Academy’s Founder and Director, also the Symphony’s Concertmaster, this program identifies and nurtures musical talent in children and youth in an environment of artistic excellence as well as economic and cultural diversity.
The Symphony Board has established an Executive Director Search Committee and hopes to fill the position by the first of the new year.
Media Contact: Jane Casey – rjntkc@gmail.com – 203.570.1866