Houston Symphony Executive and Leadership Team

Gary Ginstling, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer at Houston Symphony, directs the overarching strategic vision for this historic performing arts organization. Overseeing the ensemble of 88 professional musicians, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer ensures the artistic integrity of nearly 170 annual concerts. Ginstling manages high-level relationships with the Board of Trustees and community stakeholders to secure the financial health of the institution. By aligning the $35.2 million operating budget with long-term growth objectives, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer maintains the orchestra's status as a leader in the Texas cultural landscape. Gary Ginstling drives the expansion of recording initiatives and touring activities, ensuring the organization reaches global audiences. Through rigorous administrative oversight, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer fosters an environment where artistic innovation thrives, ultimately securing the future of the orchestra for the next century.

Daniel Granados, the Chief Financial Officer at Houston Symphony, architects the fiscal strategy for the $35.2 million annual operating budget. Overseeing all financial reporting, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the long-term sustainability of the organization's diverse concert, education, and recording activities. Granados manages the complex revenue streams derived from ticket sales, philanthropic contributions, and endowment distributions. By implementing robust financial controls, the Chief Financial Officer provides the necessary data to support strategic decision-making by the executive leadership team. Daniel Granados monitors the fiscal health of the orchestra, ensuring that resources remain available for the 88 professional musicians and the extensive community-embedded programs. Through precise financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates operational risks and maximizes the impact of every dollar spent. This leadership role involves maintaining transparency with the Board of Trustees while driving the financial growth required to sustain the organization's second century of performance.

Victoria Dominguez, the Chief Operating Officer at Houston Symphony, manages the daily logistical complexities of a large-scale performing arts entity. Overseeing the internal infrastructure, the Chief Operating Officer coordinates the scheduling of 170 annual concerts and over 1,000 community-based performances. Dominguez optimizes the utilization of performance venues and ensures seamless collaboration between the administrative staff and the 88 professional musicians. By streamlining operational workflows, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the efficiency of the organization's community engagement programs, which reach nearly 200,000 people annually. Victoria Dominguez monitors the execution of touring logistics and recording sessions, ensuring that every production meets the high standards of the orchestra. Through meticulous resource allocation, the Chief Operating Officer supports the broader mission of the institution, providing the necessary framework for artistic success across all regional community centers, schools, and hospitals.

Maureen Higdon, the Executive Board Member and President of League at Houston Symphony, facilitates the vital connection between the volunteer leadership and the professional administration. Overseeing the volunteer initiatives, the Executive Board Member and President of League ensures that the Symphony League provides essential support for the orchestra's community and educational activities. Higdon coordinates with the Board of Trustees to align volunteer efforts with the strategic goals of the organization. By fostering a culture of engagement, the Executive Board Member and President of League mobilizes resources that enhance the impact of the 1,000 community-based performances held annually. Maureen Higdon drives the recruitment and retention of volunteers who support the orchestra's mission in schools, hospitals, and community centers. Through this leadership role, the Executive Board Member and President of League strengthens the bond between the institution and the public, ensuring that the orchestra remains deeply integrated into the fabric of the local community.

James Lee, the President, Symphony Endowment (Houston) at Houston Symphony, manages the long-term financial assets that secure the future of the orchestra. Overseeing the investment strategy of the endowment, the President, Symphony Endowment (Houston) ensures that the organization possesses the capital necessary to sustain its second century of operations. Lee collaborates with the Board of Trustees to establish policies that protect the principal while generating consistent returns for the annual operating budget. By focusing on sustainable growth, the President, Symphony Endowment (Houston) provides a stable foundation for the 88 professional musicians and the diverse range of concert activities. James Lee monitors market conditions and adjusts investment portfolios to align with the financial requirements of the institution. Through prudent management, the President, Symphony Endowment (Houston) supports the ongoing mission of the orchestra, ensuring that the organization continues to deliver world-class performances to the community for generations to come.

Janet Clark, the Board President at Houston Symphony, leads the governing body responsible for the strategic direction and oversight of the organization. Overseeing the Board of Trustees, the Board President ensures that the institution adheres to its mission of artistic excellence and community service. Clark facilitates high-level discussions regarding the $35.2 million budget, long-term planning, and the appointment of key executive leadership. By fostering collaboration among trustees, the Board President maintains the stability and growth of the orchestra. Janet Clark drives the governance processes that allow the organization to navigate the complexities of the performing arts industry. Through this leadership role, the Board President provides the necessary support for the 88 professional musicians and the administrative staff. By championing the values of the institution, the Board President ensures that the orchestra remains a cornerstone of the cultural landscape, effectively serving the diverse population of the region.

Barbara McCelvey, the President-Elect & Society Board of Trustees Committee Chair, Development Executive at Houston Symphony, architects the fundraising strategies that sustain the organization's extensive programming. Overseeing the development department, the President-Elect & Society Board of Trustees Committee Chair, Development Executive cultivates relationships with major donors and corporate partners. McCelvey manages the initiatives that secure the financial resources required for the 170 annual concerts and community-based performances. By aligning development goals with the artistic mission, the President-Elect & Society Board of Trustees Committee Chair, Development Executive ensures that the orchestra maintains its status as a leading performing arts organization. Barbara McCelvey drives the planning for future campaigns, preparing the institution for long-term success. Through this leadership role, the President-Elect & Society Board of Trustees Committee Chair, Development Executive strengthens the philanthropic foundation of the orchestra, enabling the continued delivery of high-quality music to the community.

Leslie Nossaman, the President, Symphony League (Houston) at Houston Symphony, directs the volunteer efforts that support the orchestra's community engagement and educational outreach. Overseeing the activities of the Symphony League, the President, Symphony League (Houston) ensures that volunteers contribute effectively to the success of the 1,000 community-based performances held annually. Nossaman coordinates with the administrative team to identify areas where volunteer support can enhance the impact of the orchestra's programs in schools, churches, and hospitals. By fostering a dedicated volunteer base, the President, Symphony League (Houston) expands the reach of the organization into diverse community segments. Leslie Nossaman drives the planning of events that raise awareness and support for the ensemble. Through this leadership role, the President, Symphony League (Houston) strengthens the connection between the orchestra and the public, ensuring that the institution remains a vital and accessible cultural resource for the entire region.

Rolanda Gregory, the Chief Marketing Officer at Houston Symphony, drives the brand strategy and audience development initiatives for the largest performing arts organization in the region. Overseeing all promotional campaigns, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures that the 170 annual concerts and community performances receive maximum visibility. Gregory manages the digital and traditional media presence, connecting the orchestra with diverse audiences across Greater Houston. By analyzing market trends, the Chief Marketing Officer crafts messaging that highlights the Grammy Award-winning quality of the ensemble. Rolanda Gregory coordinates with the development team to align marketing efforts with fundraising goals, ensuring consistent communication with donors and patrons. Through innovative outreach strategies, the Chief Marketing Officer expands the reach of the organization's educational and community-based programs. This leadership role involves building strong brand loyalty, ultimately increasing ticket revenue and strengthening the public perception of the orchestra as a vital cultural asset.