Symphony names new managing director

By NewsPress Now

A Central High School graduate is back in her hometown, stepping into a leading role with the Saint Joseph Symphony.

Nancy Schmidt-Brunson is now the organization’s managing director. She was born and raised in St. Joseph and pursued degrees in vocal performance at the University of Kansas and the College-Conservatory of Music of the University of Cincinnati. She also received a diploma in vocal studies from the Mozarteum in Salzburg, Austria, as a Rotary International Scholar, where she was sponsored by the Downtown Rotary Club of St. Joseph.

“I feel like someone has just handed me a pair of ruby slippers,” Schmidt-Brunson said. “The next step in my career was planned to administratively lead an orchestra and the fact that I am now able to apply my talents and experience to the first orchestra I ever attended is almost surreal. I am thrilled to be once again a part of the St. Joseph community and look forward to working to celebrate and promote the musical and cultural heritage of my hometown through this wonderful symphony. There truly is no place like home.”

Schmidt-Brunson worked as a talent agent and casting director in Los Angeles for more than 20 years, managing a list that included Academy Award, Emmy and Tony nominees and winners. For the past 15 years she has worked in manager and director roles in classical music organizations in Dallas, Santa Fe/Albuquerque, Montana and Louisville, Kentucky.