Operations CA

Lesley Sabol

General Manager
Modesto Symphony Orchestra Association
Modesto, California
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Years in current position: 1.5
Years in the field: 3

Majors:
B.A. Music Performance, Boston University

Additional Training:
Culinary Arts, Newbury College
Career Path:
Private Chef, Boston
Chef, Centre Street Café (Boston)
Restaurant Manager, Cortez Restaurant, Pluto’s, Peet’s (San Francisco)
Marketing/PR Intern, New Century Chamber Orchestra
Operations Manager/Librarian, Sacramento Philharmonic

What are the most surprising, interesting or challenging aspects of your day-to-day work?
Challenging: Being able to juggle all of my responsibilities without letting things slip through the cracks; managing staff.  Interesting: Artistic programming; working with the artistic staff; watching an audience thoroughly enjoy something you’ve personally programmed and produced.

What inspired you to work for an orchestra?
I’ve always aspired to have a job where I get paid to be creative everyday. I also think this industry needs to rethink strategies on attracting audiences related to programming. We need more outside-the-box thinking, which I throughly enjoy.

Would you have done anything differently?
I applied for the Orchestra Management Fellowship twice, when I should have jumped right into an unpaid internship instead. I’m happy with the career path I chose. It’s diverse, and everything I’ve done till now has only helped me in this position. It’s all relevant!

What advice would you offer to someone considering the orchestra field?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if you think they’re stupid. Network and learn from as many people as you can. Be familiar with what’s happening in the industry, not just the top-tier orchestras. Don’t be afraid to relocate for a position. If you don’t have a strong work ethic, this industry is not for you.

Any other advice?
Just because you don’t have experience in this field doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be considered for a job. Highlight any personal or professional experiences from your past that are relevant to the job you aspire to have.