Indiana’s Fort Wayne Philharmonic Principal Bassist to Retire 

Adrian Mann is retiring after 52 seasons, but will stay on as the orchestra’s Staff Librarian

As Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s principal bassist for over five decades, Adrian Mann has also been the orchestra’s director of Gallery Concerts from 1974 to 1982, stage manager from 1994 to 2007, and staff arranger since 1989. 

Since 2007, he has served as staff librarian of the orchestra — a role he will continue as he retires from orchestral performance. 

Born in New York, Mann’s versatility as a musician extends to playing the organ, bassoon, and all string instruments. He holds an Artist Diploma from the New School of Music in Philadelphia and a Master of Music and D.M.A. from Catholic University of America. His graduate studies were completed at the Peabody Conservatory. 

Before his tenure at Fort Wayne, he was performing with the Richmond Symphony and the Orchestra International Iuventus of Salerno in Italy. 

As an educator, he has served on the faculty of the Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne Music Department, Eastern Music Festival, and Oberlin Conservatory. For 20 years, he was also director of music and liturgy at St. Joseph Hessen Cassel Church. 

“ With mixed emotions, we announce the retirement of Adrian Mann, our cherished Principal Bassist, after an extraordinary 52 seasons with the Fort Wayne Philharmonic,” the orchestra posted on Facebook. “While we are saddened to see Adrian leave, we are also filled with immense gratitude and admiration for his remarkable career and commitment to our organization.

“Adrian’s journey with us has been nothing short of exceptional,” they added. “Throughout his tenure, Adrian has worn many hats, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s history … Let’s come together to honor Adrian Mann, whose passion, dedication, and artistry have inspired us all. Here's to a well-deserved retirement filled with joy, relaxation, and continued musical exploration!”