Education profiles PA

Ayden Adler

Director, Education and Community Partnerships
The Philadelphia Orchestra
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Years in current position: 1
Years in the field: 15

Majors:
A.B. Comparative Religion with music minor, Princeton University
M.M. Horn, Julliard School
M.A. Musicology, Eastman School of Music
D.M.A., Horn, Eastman School of Music
Ph.D. Musicology, Eastman School of Music

Additional Training:
Finance course

Career Path:
Horn player; Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra
Professor of Horn and Arts Leadership classes, Eastman School of Music
Members Committee, Negotiating Committee, Education Committee, RPO

What are the most surprising, interesting or challenging aspects of your day-to-day work?
I love how my work in education and community partnerships is so varied—tasks include work with government officials, concerned parents, educators, funders, donors, students, musicians, etc., etc.!

What inspired you to work for an orchestra?
I have always been passionate about music, equitable access to quality education, and giving back to my community. My first love was performance and my second was management—I’m very fortunate to have been able to pursue both at a high level. 

What advice would you offer to someone considering the orchestra field?
Get a strong liberal arts education that teaches you how to think and write, develop a strong work ethic, and remain committed to lifelong learning. Then you can follow your passions in life—even if those change.

Any other advice?
Having mentors and strong networking connections are also very important.

Ralia Vardaxis

Vice President of Development and Community Relations
Reading Symphony Orchestra
Reading, Pennsylvania
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Time in current position: 5 months
Time in the field: 5 months

Majors:
English Communications, German

Additional Training:
Indiana School of Philanthropy, Principles and Techniques of Fundraising

Career Path:
Wachovia Bank: Teller, International Department Administrative Assistant, Product Manager, Geographic Marketing Manager, Community Relations Manager

What are the most surprising, interesting or challenging aspects of your day-to-day work?
The amount of community outreach involved in the orchestra’s work.

What inspired you to work for an orchestra?
The new maestro being onboard, as well as optimism about local community leadership.

What advice would you offer to someone considering the orchestra field?
Familiarize yourself with the symphony audience and local community leaders. Become very familiar with your board of directors.

Any other advice for working on the development side?
A financial background would help significantly.