Houston Symphony Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Houston Symphony has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, marketing, operations, development, and board governance.

Driven by a commitment to artistic excellence, Houston Symphony continues its second century as one of America's leading orchestras, presenting nearly 170 concerts annually and engaging the community through extensive educational and outreach programs.

Leadership Roles at Houston Symphony

  • Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer - Gary Ginstling
  • Chief Financial Officer - Daniel Granados
  • Chief Operating Officer - Victoria Dominguez
  • President-Elect & Society Board of Trustees Committee Chair, Development Executive - Barbara McCelvey
  • Board President - Janet Clark
  • Executive Board Member and President of League - Maureen Higdon
  • President, Symphony Endowment (Houston) - James Lee
  • President, Symphony League (Houston) - Leslie Nossaman
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Rolanda Gregory
  • Gary Ginstling - Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer

    Gary Ginstling, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer at Houston Symphony, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for one of America's leading orchestras. Overseeing a full-time ensemble of 88 professional musicians, Ginstling ensures the symphony's robust schedule of nearly 170 concerts annually, alongside extensive community, education, and touring activities. This leadership role involves managing an annual operating budget of $35.2 million, driving financial sustainability and growth for the organization. Gary Ginstling also guides the symphony's recording endeavors, contributing to its Grammy Award-winning legacy. The Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to fostering artistic excellence and expanding the symphony's reach across Greater Houston and beyond, impacting nearly 200,000 people annually through various programs.

    Daniel Granados - Chief Financial Officer

    Daniel Granados, the Chief Financial Officer at Houston Symphony, manages the organization's comprehensive financial operations and fiscal strategy. Granados oversees the $35.2 million annual operating budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and resource allocation across concert programming, community engagement, and educational initiatives. This critical role involves developing financial forecasts, managing investments, and maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions and stakeholders. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight ensures the long-term financial health of the symphony, supporting its mission to present nearly 170 concerts annually and its extensive outreach efforts. Daniel Granados's financial acumen is vital for sustaining the symphony's position as one of America's leading orchestras and its Grammy Award-winning recording activities.

    Victoria Dominguez - Chief Operating Officer

    Victoria Dominguez, the Chief Operating Officer at Houston Symphony, oversees the day-to-day operational management and logistical execution of the organization's extensive activities. Dominguez ensures the seamless delivery of nearly 170 annual concerts, managing venue operations, production, and technical requirements for performances. This role also encompasses the coordination of community-based performances, educational programs, and touring logistics, supporting the symphony's broad reach across Greater Houston. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include optimizing operational efficiency and resource utilization to support the symphony's $35.2 million annual budget. Victoria Dominguez's leadership ensures the consistent delivery of high-quality artistic experiences and effective program implementation.
    Victoria Dominguez

    Barbara McCelvey - President-Elect & Society Board of Trustees Committee Chair, Development Executive

    Barbara McCelvey, the President-Elect & Society Board of Trustees Committee Chair, Development Executive at Houston Symphony, spearheads critical fundraising initiatives and cultivates donor relationships. McCelvey leads development efforts to secure financial support for the symphony's extensive programming, including its nearly 170 annual concerts and vital community and educational outreach. This position involves chairing key committees within the Society Board of Trustees, focusing on strategic growth and resource generation. The Development Executive's role is paramount in sustaining the organization's $35.2 million operating budget and its mission to serve Greater Houston. Barbara McCelvey's dedication drives philanthropic engagement, ensuring the continued artistic excellence and community impact of the Houston Symphony.

    Janet Clark - Board President

    Janet Clark, the Board President at Houston Symphony, provides high-level governance and strategic oversight for the organization. Clark leads the Board of Trustees, guiding the symphony's long-term vision and ensuring adherence to its mission of artistic excellence and community engagement. This leadership position involves collaborating closely with the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer to advance the symphony's objectives, including its extensive concert schedule and outreach programs. The Board President's role is crucial in fostering strong governance practices and championing the symphony's impact across Greater Houston. Janet Clark's stewardship ensures the continued success and sustainability of this historic performing arts institution.

    Maureen Higdon - Executive Board Member and President of League

    Maureen Higdon, the Executive Board Member and President of League at Houston Symphony, drives engagement and support through the Symphony League's initiatives. Higdon leads the League's activities, which complement the symphony's core mission by fostering community involvement and volunteer efforts. This role involves coordinating League programs that enhance audience experience and support the symphony's operational needs. The President of League's influence extends to mobilizing a dedicated base of supporters who contribute significantly to the symphony's outreach and educational endeavors. Maureen Higdon's leadership strengthens the connection between the symphony and its dedicated volunteer community, amplifying its impact across Greater Houston.

    James Lee - President, Symphony Endowment (Houston)

    James Lee, the President, Symphony Endowment (Houston) at Houston Symphony, directs the strategic management and growth of the organization's endowment fund. Lee oversees investment strategies and fundraising efforts specifically dedicated to building long-term financial security for the symphony. This critical role ensures the endowment's capacity to provide sustained support for artistic programming, educational initiatives, and operational stability. The President, Symphony Endowment's focus is on maximizing returns and ensuring the endowment's growth to safeguard the symphony's future. James Lee's financial leadership is instrumental in securing the enduring legacy and continued artistic excellence of the Houston Symphony.

    Leslie Nossaman - President, Symphony League (Houston)

    Leslie Nossaman, the President, Symphony League (Houston) at Houston Symphony, leads volunteer efforts and community engagement initiatives through the Symphony League. Nossaman directs the League's activities, fostering a vibrant network of supporters who enhance the symphony's connection with the Greater Houston community. This role involves coordinating volunteer programs, fundraising events, and outreach activities that amplify the symphony's mission. The President, Symphony League's focus is on mobilizing community involvement and providing essential support for the symphony's diverse programming. Leslie Nossaman's leadership cultivates a strong base of advocates, ensuring the symphony's continued cultural and educational impact.

    Rolanda Gregory - Chief Marketing Officer

    Rolanda Gregory, the Chief Marketing Officer at Houston Symphony, architects and executes comprehensive marketing and communications strategies to enhance audience engagement and brand visibility. Gregory directs campaigns that promote the symphony's diverse programming, including its nearly 170 annual concerts, educational outreach, and community performances reaching nearly 200,000 people. This role involves leveraging digital platforms, public relations, and advertising to connect with diverse audiences across Greater Houston. The Chief Marketing Officer's efforts are crucial for driving ticket sales, fostering community support, and reinforcing the Houston Symphony's status as a premier performing arts institution. Rolanda Gregory's strategic initiatives ensure the symphony's artistic achievements and community impact resonate broadly.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Houston Symphony Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Houston Symphony?
    Houston Symphony is led by Gary Ginstling (Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Daniel Granados (Chief Financial Officer) and Victoria Dominguez (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Houston Symphony’s executive team?
    The executive team of Houston Symphony includes leaders such as Gary Ginstling (Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer), Daniel Granados (Chief Financial Officer), Victoria Dominguez (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Houston Symphony have?
    Houston Symphony has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Houston Symphony’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Houston Symphony includes roles such as Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President-Elect & Society Board of Trustees Committee Chair, Development Executive, Board President.