David Hyslop sorts out his 10th orchestra
mainThe orchestra manager David Hyslop, former prez of St Louis Symphony and Minnesota, has made a post-post career of sorting out US orchestras that get their strings tied up in knots.
Hyslop, 77, has been, successively and successfully, interim chief at Dallas Symphony, Louisville, Fort Worth and seven more.
Today he winds up a stint in Orlando with the installation of a new chief exec (press release below).
Where next?
The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra has named Paul Helfrich as its new executive director. Helfrich is currently the President & CEO of the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance. He succeeds Christopher Barton, who left the Philharmonic in March 2019. Veteran arts administrator David Hyslop has served as the Orchestra’s interim executive director since May 2019 and will continue in the role until Helfrich assumes his new position.
Helfrich comes to Orlando from the Dayton, Ohio where he served as President of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra for four years before leading the merger of the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance. The Alliance combines ballet, opera, and symphony orchestra into one organization, a first in the nation. At the Alliance, Helfrich held the position of president & CEO for eight years.
Beyond being one of the best and most respected orchestra administrators in the industry, he is one of the kindest and caring in the business.
I have known David since his days as Exec. Director of Minnesota Orchestra. David is a brilliant CEO who combines administrative acumen with knowledge and passion for classical music.
I love his greeting, ‘hey guy’! He’s a regular guy who just happens to be brilliant at his craft.
The energizer bunny of symphony management!…and a good one, too.
We at the Orlando Phil have benefitted greatly from David Hyslop’s insights and mentorship. His vast experience and knowledge of the Orchestral scene worldwide has been critical to our course correction.
We are looking forward to welcoming Paul Helfrich in the New Year.
Mary Palmer, President, Orlando Phil Board of Directors.