AYPO Announces the Appointment of Miranda Southwood as Executive Director
Melissa Schexnaydre
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AYPO kicks off 60th season with the appointment of Miranda Southwood as Executive Director
**September 21, 2024** – The American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras (AYPO) proudly announces the appointment of **Miranda Southwood** as its new Executive Director, effective September 10, 2024. This exciting news comes as AYPO celebrates its 60th anniversary, marking a momentous occasion for the organization and setting the stage for an even brighter future.
Miranda Southwood has been a vital force within AYPO since joining in 2018, where she has shown unwavering dedication and a forward-thinking approach. During her tenure as Director of Finance & Operations, she played a pivotal role in enhancing the organization’s financial and administrative framework, while also overseeing the Senior Division Orchestras and Chamber Ensemble programs. Her contributions have improved day-to-day operations and strengthened the organization’s foundation for future growth.
With a deep passion for music and education, Miranda’s qualifications are extensive. She holds an M.B.A. and an M.A. in Arts Administration from the University of Cincinnati, a B.M. in Violin Performance, and a B.A. in Arts Administration from the University of Kentucky. Her career includes roles with the National Symphony Orchestra, Kentucky Symphony Orchestra, Aspen Music Festival and School, and other prestigious arts institutions, positioning her perfectly to lead AYPO into its next chapter.
Following her appointment as Interim Executive Director, Miranda led strategic initiatives to modernize AYPO’s technological infrastructure and expand the administrative team, all while maintaining AYPO’s reputation as Northern Virginia’s premier youth orchestra. Her leadership has been instrumental in ensuring that AYPO continues to provide an exceptional platform for young musicians to thrive.
AYPO President retired Ambassador Allan Mustard commented, “Miranda combines two sets of qualities, devotion to music and musicianship coupled with extraordinary administrative and organizational skill. She is the perfect person to lead AYPO into the future.”
Under Miranda’s leadership, the organization is poised to expand its programming and community outreach, reaffirming its commitment to shaping the next generation of musicians.
With a rich history and a bright future ahead, AYPO is excited to embark on this new chapter with Miranda Southwood at the helm.
For more information, please contact:
Allan Mustard, Board President
President@aypo.org | www.aypo.org
About AYPO
American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras provide a prestigious and transformational set of growth opportunities in classical music performance for young musicians from all backgrounds in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. Seven orchestras and six ensembles change students’ lives through excellence in instruction and instilling excellence in musicianship as well as social responsibility via outreach to the community.