Nashville Symphony Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Nashville Symphony has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and marketing.

Driven by a commitment to artistic excellence, Nashville Symphony enriches the community through diverse musical experiences and robust educational outreach, solidifying its role as a vital cultural institution.

Leadership Roles at Nashville Symphony

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Allen Valentine
  • Chief Financial Officer - Amy Killett
  • Chief Operating Officer - Jeff Saal
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Matthew Merker
  • Allen Valentine - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Allen Valentine, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Nashville Symphony, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the esteemed orchestra. Valentine guides the organization's mission to provide a diverse array of concerts and community programs, ensuring accessibility for music enthusiasts and families alike. Overseeing ticket purchasing options, including season passes and special offers, Valentine also champions resources for first-time attendees and accessibility services. This leadership role involves fostering strong relationships with donors and stakeholders, driving public donations to enhance the arts community's impact. By championing educational initiatives and community engagement through various programs, Valentine ensures the symphony's broad cultural contribution. The President & Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to the strategic development and financial health of the institution, securing its long-term artistic and operational success. Allen Valentine's executive oversight ensures the symphony remains a vibrant cultural cornerstone.
    Allen Valentine

    Amy Killett - Chief Financial Officer

    Amy Killett, the Chief Financial Officer at Nashville Symphony, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the organization. Killett oversees budgeting, financial planning, and reporting, ensuring the fiscal health and sustainability of the symphony's diverse concert offerings and community programs. This role involves meticulous management of ticket revenue, season pass sales, and special offer expenditures, directly supporting the resources provided to attendees. The Chief Financial Officer also plays a critical part in securing public donations and managing the financial aspects of venue rental services, thereby enhancing the arts community's impact. Killett's financial acumen is essential for supporting educational initiatives and community engagement programs, ensuring their efficient execution. By maintaining robust financial controls and exploring new revenue streams, Amy Killett safeguards the symphony's ability to deliver exceptional artistic experiences and maintain its position as a leading cultural institution. The Chief Financial Officer's dedication ensures financial stability for all symphony endeavors.

    Jeff Saal - Chief Operating Officer

    Jeff Saal, the Chief Operating Officer at Nashville Symphony, directs the day-to-day operational management and logistical execution of the organization. Saal oversees the seamless delivery of diverse concerts and community programs, ensuring a high-quality experience for all attendees, from music enthusiasts to families. This involves managing the operational aspects of ticket purchasing, including season passes and special offers, and ensuring the efficient provision of resources for first-time attendees and accessibility services. The Chief Operating Officer also coordinates the operational support for educational initiatives and community engagement programs, maximizing their reach and impact. Saal's responsibilities extend to managing venue rental services, ensuring smooth operations for external events. By optimizing operational workflows and resource allocation, Jeff Saal enhances the symphony's capacity to serve the arts community and fulfill its mission. The Chief Operating Officer's focus on efficiency and service delivery underpins the symphony's overall success.
    Jeff Saal

    Matthew Merker - Chief Marketing Officer

    Matthew Merker, the Chief Marketing Officer at Nashville Symphony, leads the strategic development and execution of all marketing and communications initiatives. Merker drives audience engagement for the orchestra's diverse array of concerts and community programs, attracting music enthusiasts and families. This role involves crafting compelling campaigns for ticket purchasing options, including season passes and special offers, and promoting resources for first-time attendees and accessibility services. The Chief Marketing Officer also spearheads marketing efforts for educational initiatives and community engagement programs, expanding their visibility and participation. Merker's strategic direction is crucial for promoting venue rental services and encouraging public donations, thereby amplifying the arts community's impact. By leveraging data-driven insights and innovative marketing strategies, Matthew Merker ensures the symphony's message resonates broadly and strengthens its connection with the community. The Chief Marketing Officer's efforts are vital for sustained growth and cultural relevance.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Nashville Symphony Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Nashville Symphony?
    Nashville Symphony is led by Allen Valentine (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Amy Killett (Chief Financial Officer) and Jeff Saal (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Nashville Symphony’s executive team?
    The executive team of Nashville Symphony includes leaders such as Allen Valentine (President & Chief Executive Officer), Amy Killett (Chief Financial Officer), Jeff Saal (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Nashville Symphony have?
    Nashville Symphony has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Nashville Symphony’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Nashville Symphony includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer.