BSO Welcomes New Executive Director David Schillhammer

Brevard Symphony Orchestra is pleased to announce the appointment of David Schillhammer as its new executive director. Schillhammer replaces Fran Delisle, who is retiring this season after 25 years in that role. Schillhammer, a veteran orchestra administrator with more than 30 years of experience in the industry, begins in mid-January 2019.

Schillhammer was hired at the conclusion of a national search by an executive director search committee appointed by BSO Chairperson Charlie Nash and the BSO board of directors' executive committee.

"I am honored and humbled to be the next executive director of the BSO, celebrating a milestone season with its 65th anniversary. I have known and followed the success of the orchestra over many years, and am now thrilled to join the team and plot its next chapter, in collaboration with the musicians, board, staff, volunteers, patrons and of course, Music Director Christopher Confessore," Schillhammer stated. "I have worked with Maestro Confessore for many years and he is an immense artistic talent, programmer, conductor and ambassador for the Brevard Symphony. I would be remiss if I did not congratulate Fran Delisle, who has steadfastly and with great heart, lead this orchestra for 25 years. Bravo Fran!"

Prior to joining the Brevard Symphony, Schillhammer was executive director of Enzian Theater in Maitland. He also served as executive director of the Orlando Philharmonic for 16 years and held the same position with the San Antonio Symphony. During six years with The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, Schillhammer was its operations and education manager before being promoted to general manager.

"I am a great believer in the value of experience and expertise. David's decades of experience as an orchestra executive director, along with his infectious enthusiasm and ability to motivate and inspire people, made him the obvious and unanimous choice to become our next executive director," states Confessore. "I look forward to working with David and our musicians, board, volunteers, and staff to extend the reach of our organization throughout our community."

"Our BSO has received so many blessings, which include the wonderful services rendered by our retiring Executive Director, Fran Delisle, and the beginning of the tenure of our incoming Executive Director, David Schillhammer," said BSO Board Chair Charlie Nash.

Schillhammer received his Bachelor of Music in Bassoon Performance from the prestigious Eastman School of Music. His first job was production manager for the Rochester Philharmonic. He is a native of Burlington, Vermont.

The BSO is Brevard's premier professional orchestra. For 65 years, the Brevard Symphony Orchestra has brought quality performances, educational programs and outreach events to the community. The Orchestra's mission is to entertain and enrich individuals and communities, by creating exceptional, live symphonic music. The BSO is orchestra-in-residence at the King Center for the Performing Arts in Melbourne, Florida. For more information, visit the organization's website at www.BrevardSymphony.com.