ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra announced that Tyler Rand will take over as executive director after the retirement of Mary Steffek Blaske, the current A2SO executive director.
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Announced by the A2SO board of directors Oct 1., Rand, who is currently the director of marketing and communications, will assume his new responsibilities in January after Steffek Blaske's December retirement.
Steffek Blaske has been working with the organization in her role for 25 years.
Geoff Barnes, president of the symphony orchestra board of directors, said that Rand was selected after months of searching for Steffek Blaske's replacement.
"After a months-long search with extensive input from staff, board members, musicians, and community members, the board has overwhelmingly endorsed Tyler's appointment to this position," said Barnes in the announcement.
"Tyler has revitalized our marketing efforts and has brought a sophisticated level of musical knowledge to everything the A2SO does. He is committed to the A2SO's continued musical excellence and extensive educational outreach in the community."
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Rand, who is himself a musician, is experienced in arts and nonprofit administration and has overseen programming, marketing and community engagement responsibilities. He holds a bachelor's degree in music theory and literature from Southern Adventist University and has performed as an oboist with various music ensembles in Chattanooga, Tennessee, including the Chattanooga Bach Choir, Opera Tennessee, and the East Tennessee Symphony Orchestra.
According to the announcement:
"I am honored to continue my work with the A2SO in this new role and serve alongside our musicians, board and staff to further the unprecedented artistic growth we've experienced under the leadership of Mary Steffek Blaske and our former Music Director, Arie Lipsky," said Rand.
"With the most talented musicians in the Midwest, the most vibrant and far-reaching education and community engagement programs in our region, and our deep commitment to presenting and cultivating the next generation of diverse music makers, we can expect great things from this orchestra."
To see the full announcement, visit the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra website.
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