New Zealand Symphony Orchestra Appoints New Chief Executive

Marc Feldman will leave France's Orchestre National de Bretagne to step into the role

Arts executive Marc Feldman has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO). He will leave his post at the helm of France's Orchestre National de Bretagne (ONB) to lead the NZSO in May 2025.

Feldman has served a generous term with the ONB, having been appointed in 2011. During his tenure, the ONB received the coveted "National Orchestra" label from the French cultural ministry, for its its dedication to Breton culture and people as well as its innovative programming.

He also initiated partnerships between the ONB and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, the Royal Opera House, and the European Space Agency — as well as being a founding member of the pioneering Creative Consortium to promote co-operation within the industry.

These partnerships have also borne fruit in a fiscal sense, increasing the ONB’s income by €1 million per annum.

Prior to his time at the ONB, Feldman was Executive Director of California’s Sacramento Philharmonic Orchestra, during which time he brought in $790,000 in new grants and donations. He also implemented new initiatives, including a neighborhood concert series, a partnership with Carnegie Hall's Link UP community engagement project, and the commissioning of new works.

"Marc Feldman’s achievements at the helm of Orchestre National de Bretagne are exceptional," said Carmel Walsh, NZSO Board Chair. "Under his leadership, the ONB experienced financial stability, innovative artistic programming, engagement with diverse communities, as well as trusted and fruitful relationships with musicians and artistic collaborators. He has raised the profile of the orchestra in France and internationally, while growing its revenue and audiences, engaging with more communities and spearheading new creative partnerships. This is exactly what we want a new Chief Executive to accomplish with the NZSO."

"Marc’s depth of experience with orchestras in the United States and France over three decades will be invaluable. Not only does he bring his passion for orchestral music and fresh perspectives, but a wealth of know-how working with government and private funders. He already knew about the NZSO from its international reputation, its recordings, and its distinctive place in New Zealand culture and history."

"I am truly honored to be appointed to lead the NZSO," Feldman said. "New Zealand’s unique culture and history will be my inspiration for bringing the organization forward into a rich and exciting future throughout Aotearoa [New Zealand] and on the world stage."