by Shanna Ungate – Thursday, December 19, 2019 – ASHEVILLE, NC

Asheville Symphony Society Executive Director David Whitehill has been announced as one of the top 30 music professionals in the country by Musical America.

Whitehill’s recognition is based on his leadership of the Asheville Symphony over the past seven years. Driven by the belief that a classical music organization can be a source for and collaborator with the entire music community. Among his notable accomplishments are IDEASOUND and the Asheville Amadeus Festival.

IDEASOUND, a recording initiative and audience engagement project that connects the Asheville Symphony with leading performers of popular music genres resonating in our region. The Asheville Symphony has since recorded three albums with diverse musicians, including Grammy winners Steep Canyon Rangers, Secret Agent 23 Skidoo and most recently, Boyz II Men. The Asheville Amadeus festival celebrates the creativity within the Asheville community, including music, dance, food, beer, art, theatre and more. Headlining artists have included Emanuel Ax, Midori, and Warren Haynes.

“I get the pleasure of working side-by-side with a fantastic team of dedicated musicians, staff, board, patrons, and community leaders that have worked incredibly hard to build a culture that is willing to innovate, experiment and take calculated risks,” Whitehill says. “This entrepreneurial spirit has led to some of the most innovative work of my career and has established new traditions for the Asheville Symphony.”

Musical America Top 30 Professional relies on colleagues and subscribers to nominate those in the performing arts – often behind the scenes – who keep the arts alive, well and relevant. Whitehill is among a cohort that includes publicists, theatre directors, teachers, and non-profit leaders. A full list of Musical America’s Top 30 Professional can be found here.