Massachusetts’ Rockport Music Festival Hires New President and CEO 

Suzanne Wilson will assume the role as of July 1, 2024

Founded in 1981, the Rockport Music Festival offers year-round presentations of jazz, folk, pop, and global music; its education and community initiatives have also served thousands throughout Cape Ann and the North Shore annually.

As its incoming President and CEO, Suzanne Wilson will succeed Tony Beadle who was in the role for 14 years. Wilson’s appointment concludes a comprehensive international search process guided by Arts Consulting Group.

In her new role, Wilson will lead Rockport Music and the Shalin Liu Performance Center, which presents over 170 concerts and events each year. Previously, she served as the Chief of Staff of Boston’s New England Conservatory (NEC). 

Additionally, Wilson has been the Director of the Office of External Affairs & Partnerships for the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation headquartered in Boston, plus served as the Vice President of Education & Community Engagement for the Celebrity Series of Boston for 12 years.

Her other roles included President and CEO of the Phoenix Symphony, where she revitalized its strategic and financial plans, as well as Executive Director of the Midori Foundation, where she led the sharing of music education to New York City public schools in underserved communities.

A graduate of Kenyon College with a Bachelor of Arts in Music, Wilson is also a graduate of Harvard Business School’s Executive Education Program, Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management.

“We are thrilled that Suzanne will bring to Rockport Music her deep love of music, a breadth and diversity of arts management experience, particularly in the Boston and New York City areas, her talent as a strong arts advocate and collaborator, and her belief in the power and importance of music education,” said Rockport Music’s Board of Trustees Chair, Jeannie Mcintyre in the press release. “We look forward with great excitement to a bright future with Suzanne as she leads Rockport Music to new heights while embracing our mission and passion for excellence.”

“I am excited and incredibly proud to serve as the next President and CEO of Rockport Music,” Wilson added. “I have a profound admiration for its rich tradition of presenting diverse music and educational experiences and bringing audiences together at the stunning Shalin Liu Performance Center. It is my honor to partner with the dedicated Board of Trustees, the Artistic Director of Classical Music Barry Shiffman, and the talented team as we continue to champion the musicianship, innovation and spirit of this remarkable institution. I am also greatly looking forward to becoming a part of the warm and welcoming Rockport community.”