Houston Symphony Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Houston Symphony has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, finance, 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 reaching hundreds of thousands through extensive community and education 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
  • President, Symphony League (Houston) - Leslie Nossaman
  • Executive Board Member and President of League - Maureen Higdon
  • President, Symphony Endowment (Houston) - James Lee
  • Board President - Janet Clark
  • 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. Ginstling oversees the organization's comprehensive activities, encompassing concert programming, community engagement, educational initiatives, and recording projects. This leadership role involves managing the annual operating budget of $35.2 million and ensuring the financial health and artistic integrity of the institution. Gary Ginstling drives the Symphony's mission to serve the Greater Houston area and beyond, fostering artistic innovation and expanding audience reach. The Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer collaborates closely with the Board of Trustees and the Music Director to advance the Symphony's long-term goals and maintain its position as a premier performing arts organization.

    Daniel Granados - Chief Financial Officer

    Daniel Granados, the Chief Financial Officer at Houston Symphony, manages the organization's financial operations, fiscal planning, and resource allocation. Granados oversees the annual operating budget of $35.2 million, ensuring financial stability and responsible stewardship of funds. This critical role involves developing financial forecasts, managing investments, and implementing robust internal controls to safeguard the Symphony's assets. Daniel Granados works closely with the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer and the Board of Trustees to provide strategic financial guidance and support for all organizational activities, including concert seasons, touring, and educational outreach. The Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance with all financial regulations and reporting requirements, maintaining the trust of donors, sponsors, and the community.

    Victoria Dominguez - Chief Operating Officer

    Victoria Dominguez, the Chief Operating Officer at Houston Symphony, directs the day-to-day operational activities and ensures the efficient execution of the Symphony's extensive concert, community, and education programs. Dominguez oversees logistics, venue management, production, and personnel coordination for the full-time ensemble of 88 professional musicians. This leadership position involves optimizing resource utilization and streamlining processes to support nearly 170 annual concerts and over 1,000 community-based performances. Victoria Dominguez collaborates with department heads to ensure seamless delivery of artistic and outreach initiatives across Greater Houston. The Chief Operating Officer plays a vital role in maintaining the high standards of performance and service that define the Houston Symphony's legacy.
    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 provides strategic direction for development efforts. McCelvey leads the Society Board of Trustees Committee, focusing on cultivating donor relationships and securing the financial resources necessary to sustain the Symphony's extensive programming. This role involves overseeing campaigns, major gifts, and annual giving strategies that support the organization's $35.2 million operating budget. Barbara McCelvey works to ensure the long-term financial health of the Houston Symphony, fostering a culture of philanthropy among supporters. The Development Executive plays a pivotal part in connecting community members and patrons with the mission and impact of one of America's leading orchestras.

    Leslie Nossaman - President, Symphony League (Houston)

    Leslie Nossaman, the President, Symphony League (Houston) at Houston Symphony, leads the dedicated volunteer organization that supports the Symphony's mission through fundraising, community outreach, and advocacy. Nossaman directs the activities of the Symphony League, coordinating volunteer efforts that enhance audience experience and promote the orchestra's presence throughout Greater Houston. This leadership position involves engaging members in various initiatives, including educational support and community events, amplifying the Symphony's impact. Leslie Nossaman works to foster a strong connection between the League and the professional orchestra, ensuring cohesive support for artistic and community programming. The President, Symphony League (Houston) champions the Symphony's values and contributes significantly to its sustained success and community engagement.

    Maureen Higdon - Executive Board Member and President of League

    Maureen Higdon, the Executive Board Member and President of League at Houston Symphony, provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Symphony League's extensive volunteer activities. Higdon collaborates with the Symphony's executive team to align League initiatives with broader organizational goals, focusing on community engagement and support for the orchestra's programming. This role involves guiding the League's efforts in fundraising, audience development, and community outreach across Greater Houston. Maureen Higdon ensures that the League's contributions effectively enhance the Houston Symphony's mission and artistic endeavors. As an Executive Board Member, Higdon contributes valuable insights and direction to the Symphony's governance, reinforcing its position as a leading cultural institution.

    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 financial planning to ensure the long-term sustainability and financial security of the Houston Symphony. This critical role involves working with the Endowment Board and financial advisors to maximize returns and preserve capital for future generations. James Lee plays a key part in securing the financial foundation that supports the Symphony's ambitious concert seasons, educational programs, and community initiatives. The President, Symphony Endowment (Houston) is instrumental in cultivating major gifts and planned giving, ensuring the enduring legacy of one of America's most respected orchestras.

    Janet Clark - Board President

    Janet Clark, the Board President at Houston Symphony, provides overarching leadership and governance for the organization, guiding its strategic direction and ensuring its mission fulfillment. Clark presides over the Board of Trustees, fostering collaboration among board members and overseeing fiscal responsibility, artistic quality, and community impact. This position involves working closely with the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer and the Music Director to advance the Symphony's goals and maintain its standing as a premier performing arts institution. Janet Clark champions the Symphony's commitment to artistic excellence and its role in enriching the cultural landscape of Greater Houston. The Board President ensures that the Houston Symphony operates with the highest standards of integrity and effectiveness.

    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 all promotional efforts, including digital marketing, public relations, advertising, and social media campaigns, ensuring alignment with the Symphony's artistic and community objectives. This role involves analyzing market trends and audience demographics to develop targeted outreach initiatives that expand the Symphony's reach across Greater Houston. Rolanda Gregory oversees the development of compelling content and messaging that highlights the orchestra's performances, educational programs, and community impact. The Chief Marketing Officer works to cultivate strong relationships with media partners and community stakeholders, driving ticket sales and fostering a vibrant connection between the Houston Symphony and its diverse audiences.

    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, President, Symphony League (Houston).