EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SAN FRANCISCO CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

After spending several years pursuing her passion for the performing arts from a variety of angles, Kristen brings with her a rich background in operations, development, and orchestral performance.

In early 2012, Kristen joined the team at YMTC (Youth Musical Theater Company) in Berkeley, becoming the organization’s first-ever operations manager. It was there that she successfully created and implemented a new set of systems and operational infrastructure for the rapidly growing company, including data collection and box office operations. In the same year, Kristen began working for composer John Adams, aiding in the management of his office, archives, and newly-established foundation. She has served as music librarian for both Vallejo Symphony and the Young People’s Symphony Orchestra, in addition to providing freelance library services to Berkeley Symphony, the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra, and other major ensembles.

Kristen was the 2012-2013 recipient of Cal Performances’ Donor Stewardship Fellowship. She holds degrees in violin performance and in psychology from the University of California at Davis, where she studied with violinist Dan Flanagan.

Kristen first came to the SFCO in 2012 when she was named the orchestra’s operations coordinator. It was within this role that she actively familiarized herself with the organization, its mission, and its community. The SFCO’s board of directors appointed her executive director in June of 2013.

While performing has since taken a back seat to her arts admin post, Kristen enjoys playing both violin and viola with Berkeley Symphony and the Bay Area Rainbow Symphony as often as time allows.