The Reading Symphony Orchestra has announced the appointment of its new Executive Director David Whitehill, effective March 1, 2024. With an unwavering passion for music and the RSO community, Whitehill is poised to lead the Symphony into a new era of development.
Whitehill comes to Reading Symphony Orchestra with a proven track record of success in the arts. With his extensive background in music education and leadership, Whitehill is well-equipped to guide RSO toward even greater achievements.
“I am absolutely thrilled to be joining an orchestra with as rich of a history as the Reading Symphony and a community with a passion to match,” Whitehill said. “In the time I’ve spent with those affiliated with the organization, I can see how much commitment and enthusiasm there is for both the Orchestra and its youth programs. I am also eager for the opportunity to collaborate with Music Director Andrew Constantine and to work with the musicians, staff and board of the Orchestra.”
Prior to his recent appointment, Whitehill served as president and CEO of ArtsinStark, a Stark County-wide arts council, in Canton, Ohio. Additionally, Whitehill served as the executive director for both the Asheville Symphony Orchestra in North Carolina and the Bangor Symphony Orchestra in Maine. During his time in Asheville, Whitehill developed and oversaw the implementation of several signature Asheville Symphony programs, including the Asheville Amadeus festival.
Whitehill also worked in Orange County, Calif., as an arts administrator with the Pacific Symphony, Laguna Beach Music Festival, and the Philharmonic Society.
Reading Symphony Orchestra Music Director Andrew
Constantine also shared his enthusiasm for the appointment, stating, “I am thrilled to welcome David to the RSO family. He brings a unique blend of passion for music and proven leadership skills that will undoubtedly enhance our collective vision.”
Among his many accolades, Musical America recognized Whitehill in 2019 as one of the Top 30 Professional of the Performing Arts. Additionally, as executive producer of Ideasound, Whitehill worked with Grammy winners Steep Canyon Rangers and Boyz II Men on “Be Still Moses,” which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Bluegrass chart and No. 2 on the Billboard Classical Crossover chart.
“We are delighted to welcome David Whitehill to the Reading Symphony Orchestra,” said Kevin DeAcosta, a longtime RSO board member who recently was appointed board president. “With his dynamic leadership and dedication to artistic excellence, we are confident that David will help the Reading Symphony Orchestra reach new heights of creativity and impact.” DeAcosta is President and CEO of The Highlands at Wyomissing.
