Pittsburgh Symphony Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Pittsburgh Symphony has 6 executives leading key functions including strategic leadership, operational management, board advisory, and association governance.

Dedicated to artistic excellence and community engagement, Pittsburgh Symphony fosters cultural enrichment through diverse musical performances and robust educational initiatives across the region.

Leadership Roles at Pittsburgh Symphony

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Melia Tourangeau
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Martin Bates
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer - Michael Bielski
  • President, Jack Heinz Advisory Board - Ginevra Ventre
  • Managing Assistant To the President - Lisa Donnermeyer
  • President, Symphony Association (Pittsburgh) - Cathy Trombetta
  • Melia Tourangeau - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Melia Tourangeau, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Pittsburgh Symphony, directs the overarching strategic vision and artistic mission of the organization. Overseeing the long-term financial health and institutional growth, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures the delivery of world-class classical and pops performances. Melia Tourangeau manages high-level relationships with donors, community stakeholders, and the Board to secure the future of the symphony. By championing innovative programming and educational outreach, the President & Chief Executive Officer expands the reach of live music to diverse audiences. This leadership role involves balancing artistic integrity with fiscal responsibility to maintain the reputation of the institution. Through consistent engagement with regional partners, the President & Chief Executive Officer drives the cultural impact of the organization. Ultimately, Tourangeau secures the stability and artistic prominence of the symphony within the competitive landscape of performing arts.
    Melia Tourangeau

    Martin Bates - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Martin Bates, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Pittsburgh Symphony, manages the daily administrative functions and internal business processes. Overseeing the logistical execution of concert seasons and special events, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer ensures operational efficiency across all departments. Martin Bates coordinates with the artistic and production teams to align resources with the performance schedule. By optimizing ticketing systems and group sales strategies, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer supports the revenue goals of the organization. This role requires constant collaboration with the executive leadership to implement policies that enhance the patron experience. Through rigorous oversight of facility management and internal workflows, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer maintains the high standards expected of the symphony. Ultimately, Bates facilitates the seamless delivery of musical programming to the community.

    Michael Bielski - Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

    Michael Bielski, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Pittsburgh Symphony, architects the infrastructure for community engagement and educational programming. Overseeing the implementation of initiatives like the BRAVO! Educator Awards, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer ensures the symphony remains a vital resource for students and teachers. Michael Bielski manages the integration of digital ticketing platforms and accessibility programs to broaden the audience base. By analyzing market data and patron feedback, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer refines the service delivery model to maximize community impact. This leadership role involves close coordination with the marketing and development teams to promote the value of music education. Through strategic planning of regional outreach, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer strengthens the connection between the institution and the public. Ultimately, Bielski drives the growth of educational participation.

    Ginevra Ventre - President, Jack Heinz Advisory Board

    Ginevra Ventre, the President, Jack Heinz Advisory Board at Pittsburgh Symphony, leads the advisory efforts to support the artistic and financial objectives of the organization. Overseeing the engagement of key stakeholders and community leaders, the President, Jack Heinz Advisory Board ensures alignment with the long-term goals of the symphony. Ginevra Ventre facilitates discussions between the board and executive leadership to provide guidance on strategic initiatives and fundraising priorities. By leveraging professional networks, the President, Jack Heinz Advisory Board expands the influence of the symphony within the broader cultural sector. This role involves fostering a culture of philanthropy and advocacy to sustain the high quality of performances. Through consistent communication with the board members, the President, Jack Heinz Advisory Board maintains a focus on institutional excellence. Ultimately, Ventre provides the necessary oversight to ensure the continued success of the symphony.

    Lisa Donnermeyer - Managing Assistant To the President

    Lisa Donnermeyer, the Managing Assistant To the President at Pittsburgh Symphony, coordinates the executive office operations and facilitates communication between the leadership team and the board. Overseeing the scheduling and administrative workflow for the President, the Managing Assistant To the President ensures that strategic priorities receive timely attention. Lisa Donnermeyer manages the flow of information across departments to maintain organizational alignment. By organizing high-level meetings and tracking project milestones, the Managing Assistant To the President supports the efficiency of the executive suite. This role involves handling sensitive correspondence and preparing documentation for institutional decision-making. Through meticulous attention to detail, the Managing Assistant To the President enables the leadership to focus on core business objectives. Ultimately, Donnermeyer serves as a central point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring the smooth functioning of the executive office.

    Cathy Trombetta - President, Symphony Association (Pittsburgh)

    Cathy Trombetta, the President, Symphony Association (Pittsburgh) at Pittsburgh Symphony, directs the volunteer and membership engagement efforts that support the organization. Overseeing the recruitment and management of association members, the President, Symphony Association (Pittsburgh) ensures a strong base of community advocates. Cathy Trombetta coordinates events and fundraising activities that bolster the financial health of the symphony. By fostering a sense of community among patrons and supporters, the President, Symphony Association (Pittsburgh) enhances the overall experience for the audience. This role involves collaborating with the executive team to align association activities with the broader mission of the institution. Through active participation in regional cultural events, the President, Symphony Association (Pittsburgh) promotes the value of the symphony to the public. Ultimately, Trombetta strengthens the grassroots support necessary for the long-term sustainability of the organization.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Pittsburgh Symphony Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Pittsburgh Symphony?
    Pittsburgh Symphony is led by Melia Tourangeau (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Martin Bates (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer) and Michael Bielski (Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Pittsburgh Symphony’s executive team?
    The executive team of Pittsburgh Symphony includes leaders such as Melia Tourangeau (President & Chief Executive Officer), Martin Bates (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer), Michael Bielski (Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Pittsburgh Symphony have?
    Pittsburgh Symphony has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Pittsburgh Symphony’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Pittsburgh Symphony includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, President, Jack Heinz Advisory Board, Managing Assistant To the President.