Pittsburgh Symphony Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Pittsburgh Symphony has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and board governance.

Driven by a commitment to enriching the cultural landscape, Pittsburgh Symphony enhances cultural experiences through diverse live music performances and robust music education initiatives, impacting the broader region.

Leadership Roles at Pittsburgh Symphony

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

    Melia Tourangeau, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Pittsburgh Symphony, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the organization. This leadership role involves guiding the symphony's diverse range of live music performances, encompassing classical concerts, pops, and special events, all designed to engage a broad audience. Tourangeau oversees the development and implementation of ticketing strategies, including single tickets, subscriptions, and special rates, ensuring accessibility for groups, students, and service members. The focus extends to championing music education through initiatives like the BRAVO! Educator Awards and facilitating discounted access for students and teachers, reinforcing the symphony's commitment to community impact and cultural enrichment. By driving innovation and enhancing cultural experiences, Melia Tourangeau ensures the Pittsburgh Symphony maintains its significant regional presence and artistic excellence.
    Melia Tourangeau

    Bridget Kowalski - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Bridget Kowalski, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Pittsburgh Symphony, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the organization. This critical leadership position involves managing budgets for diverse live music performances, including classical concerts, pops, and special events, ensuring financial viability across all programming. Kowalski oversees the financial aspects of ticketing operations, including single tickets, subscriptions, and special rates, maintaining fiscal responsibility while promoting audience engagement. The role also includes managing the financial oversight for music education initiatives, such as the BRAVO! Educator Awards and student/teacher discounts, ensuring these programs are sustainable. By maintaining strong financial health and strategic resource allocation, Bridget Kowalski supports the Pittsburgh Symphony's commitment to innovation and its significant cultural impact in the region.

    Martin Bates - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Martin Bates, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Pittsburgh Symphony, manages the day-to-day operational activities and ensures the efficient delivery of the symphony's diverse programming. This executive function involves overseeing the logistical aspects of classical concerts, pops performances, and special events, guaranteeing seamless execution for audiences across the region. Bates coordinates the operational framework supporting various ticketing options, from single tickets to subscriptions and group rates, facilitating access for all patrons. The role also encompasses managing the operational support for music education initiatives, including programs for students and educators, aligning with the symphony's commitment to community engagement. By optimizing internal processes and resource allocation, Martin Bates drives operational excellence, directly contributing to the enhanced cultural experiences the Pittsburgh Symphony provides.

    Michael Bielski - Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

    Michael Bielski, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Pittsburgh Symphony, oversees the comprehensive operational framework supporting the symphony's extensive programming and community outreach. This executive responsibility includes managing the logistics for a wide array of live music performances, from classical concerts to pops and special events, ensuring high-quality audience experiences. Bielski directs the operational implementation of ticketing strategies, facilitating access through single tickets, subscriptions, and tailored rates for various patron groups. The role also involves managing the operational support for vital music education initiatives, including programs designed for students and educators, reinforcing the symphony's dedication to cultural development. Through meticulous operational planning and execution, Michael Bielski enhances the efficiency and reach of the Pittsburgh Symphony's mission.

    Cathy Trombetta - President, Symphony Association (Pittsburgh)

    Cathy Trombetta, the President, Symphony Association (Pittsburgh) at Pittsburgh Symphony, leads the strategic direction and engagement efforts for the Symphony Association, a key support group. This leadership function involves fostering community connections and driving participation in the symphony's mission through various initiatives. Trombetta oversees the association's role in supporting diverse live music performances, including classical concerts, pops, and special events, ensuring alignment with broader organizational goals. The focus extends to enhancing audience engagement strategies and supporting ticketing efforts that promote accessibility for all segments of the community. By championing the symphony's presence and impact, Cathy Trombetta plays a vital part in strengthening the organization's cultural footprint and community relationships.

    Lisa Donnermeyer - Managing Assistant To the President

    Lisa Donnermeyer, the Managing Assistant To the President at Pittsburgh Symphony, provides critical executive support to the President & Chief Executive Officer, facilitating the smooth execution of strategic initiatives. This role involves managing complex schedules, coordinating communications, and ensuring efficient workflow for high-level decision-making processes related to diverse live music performances and organizational development. Donnermeyer assists in the coordination of efforts supporting ticketing strategies and audience engagement, contributing to the accessibility of classical concerts, pops, and special events. The position also involves providing administrative support for music education initiatives and community outreach programs, reinforcing the symphony's commitment to cultural enrichment. Through dedicated support and organizational acumen, Lisa Donnermeyer ensures the President's effectiveness in driving the Pittsburgh Symphony's mission.

    Ginevra Ventre - President, Jack Heinz Advisory Board

    Ginevra Ventre, the President, Jack Heinz Advisory Board at Pittsburgh Symphony, leads the advisory board, providing strategic counsel and governance oversight. This leadership role involves guiding the board's engagement with the symphony's mission, focusing on enhancing its diverse range of live music performances, including classical concerts, pops, and special events. Ventre ensures the board's recommendations support the organization's commitment to innovation and community impact. The advisory board's input, under Ventre's direction, contributes to refining strategies for audience engagement and accessibility, including ticketing options and educational initiatives. By leveraging expert advice and fostering strong governance, Ginevra Ventre significantly contributes to the sustained artistic excellence and cultural enrichment provided by the Pittsburgh Symphony.

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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 Bridget Kowalski (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Martin Bates (Executive Vice President & 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), Bridget Kowalski (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Martin Bates (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Pittsburgh Symphony have?
    Pittsburgh Symphony has 7 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, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, President, Symphony Association (Pittsburgh).