The California Symphony’s board of director’s announced its unanimous decision to hire Lisa Dell as the orchestra’s new executive director, effective Friday, Nov. 15. Chair Bill Armstrong said, “we are thrilled to have Lisa join us. She will bring invaluable insight from her experience, and she will help us continue both our audience growth and our industry-leading efforts to attract younger and more diverse patrons while also showcasing diversity among the composers we present and the musicians who perform in our orchestra.”
Music Director Donato Cabrera added, “I am excited about Lisa’s appointment as executive director. Her energy and enthusiasm are contagious, and I know she will connect with our patrons and supporters. I’m also looking forward to the perspective Lisa will bring.”
“California Symphony is a vital cultural asset, and I look forward to continuing to grow its reputation as a leader among American regional orchestras,” said Dell. “It's also exciting to have the opportunity to work with the exceptional California Symphony musicians, music director Donato Cabrera, and Composer-in-Residence Katherine Balch. I feel privileged to be joining forces with a dedicated board and leadership staff who have been so instrumental in the transformation of this orchestra.”
Dell, 36, comes to California Symphony by way of Chicago’s Silverman Group, a prominent consulting firm that focuses on nonprofits and the performing arts. Over the years, she has worked with the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Grant Park Music Festival, Music of the Baroque, the Chicago Latino Music Festival, Rush Hour Concerts, International Music Foundation, North Shore Chamber Music Festival, Chicago Children’s Choir, and Merit School of Music, among others.
She is highly regarded for innovative marketing strategies and promotions that have increased attendance and sales at a number of the organizations she works with. Dell earned her bachelor’s degree in communications with a minor in marketing from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
