{"id":9939,"date":"2026-05-25T18:28:12","date_gmt":"2026-05-25T18:28:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/empire-music.net\/index.php\/2026\/05\/25\/erinn-sensenig-appointed-executive-director-of-musica-viva-ny\/"},"modified":"2026-05-25T18:28:12","modified_gmt":"2026-05-25T18:28:12","slug":"erinn-sensenig-appointed-executive-director-of-musica-viva-ny","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/empire-music.net\/index.php\/2026\/05\/25\/erinn-sensenig-appointed-executive-director-of-musica-viva-ny\/","title":{"rendered":"Erinn Sensenig Appointed Executive Director of Musica Viva NY"},"content":{"rendered":"

Musica Viva NY has announced the appointment of Erinn Sensenig as its new Executive Director, a significant transition set to take effect on June 1, 2026. Sensenig, a distinguished soprano and a long-standing member of both Musica Viva NY and All Souls NY, will assume leadership following the departure of Jasna Vasic, who has served in the role for the past five seasons. This appointment marks a pivotal moment for the organization, signaling a continuation of its artistic mission under the guidance of an artist deeply ingrained in its fabric.<\/p>\n

Sensenig’s tenure with Musica Viva NY has been multifaceted, encompassing not only her celebrated performing career but also her recent role as Production Manager. This dual experience has provided her with an intimate understanding of the organization’s operational and artistic demands. Her commitment to continuing her performing career alongside her administrative responsibilities underscores a holistic vision for leadership, one that bridges the worlds of artistic creation and organizational stewardship. This approach is increasingly valued in the non-profit arts sector, where leaders with direct artistic experience can bring a unique perspective to strategic planning and programming.<\/p>\n

In a statement reflecting her personal connection to the organization, Sensenig expressed profound enthusiasm for her new role. "Musica Viva NY has been an important part of my musical and personal life for many years, so stepping into the role of Executive Director feels deeply meaningful," she stated, as detailed in an official press release. Her words highlight a deep-seated commitment to the ensemble’s ethos, emphasizing the "extraordinary combination of artistic ambition, warmth, and dedication that defines this community." This sentiment speaks to the nurturing environment that Musica Viva NY has cultivated, a crucial element for fostering artistic excellence and audience engagement.<\/p>\n

Sensenig further elaborated on the organization’s legacy and future trajectory. "This organization has a rich history and a clear artistic identity, and it is an honor to step into this role of leading and stewarding its future." This acknowledgment of Musica Viva NY’s established reputation suggests a leadership philosophy grounded in respect for tradition while embracing forward-looking initiatives. Her eagerness to work collaboratively with Alejandro, presumably the Artistic Director, points to a unified vision for the ensemble’s artistic output. "I am especially excited to continue working alongside Alejandro, whose vision, musicianship, and collaborative spirit have shaped so much of my experience within this musical family," she added, underscoring the importance of a strong artistic partnership in guiding the organization.<\/p>\n

The transition is scheduled to occur after the completion of Vasic’s five-season term. Vasic’s tenure, while not detailed in terms of specific achievements, has undoubtedly contributed to the organization’s development. The smooth handover to a deeply connected insider like Sensenig suggests a well-planned succession process, a hallmark of effective non-profit governance. The effective date of June 1, 2026, allows for a comprehensive transition period, ensuring that Sensenig can fully immerse herself in the responsibilities of her new role without immediate pressure.<\/p>\n

Background and Context of Musica Viva NY<\/h3>\n

Musica Viva NY is a prominent vocal ensemble based in New York City, dedicated to performing a diverse repertoire of choral music, often featuring contemporary works alongside established masterpieces. Founded with a commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement, the organization has built a reputation for its thoughtful programming and virtuosic performances. Its collaborations with renowned composers and conductors, as well as its dedication to nurturing emerging talent, have solidified its position within the vibrant New York arts scene. The ensemble’s performances are frequently praised for their emotional depth and technical precision, resonating with both seasoned classical music aficionados and new audiences.<\/p>\n

The organization’s programming typically includes a mix of sacred and secular works, often exploring themes that resonate with contemporary society. Musica Viva NY has a history of commissioning new works, thereby contributing to the expansion of the choral repertoire. Furthermore, its educational outreach initiatives aim to foster a love for choral music among young people and underserved communities, reinforcing its commitment to cultural enrichment and accessibility. The ensemble’s performances are often held in historically significant venues, adding to the overall experience and cultural resonance of their concerts.<\/p>\n

\"Musica<\/figure>\n

Chronology of the Leadership Transition<\/h3>\n

The announcement of Erinn Sensenig’s appointment as Executive Director marks the culmination of a thoughtful leadership transition process. While specific dates preceding the announcement are not publicly available, it is understood that the search for a successor to Jasna Vasic has been underway, involving extensive deliberation and consideration of candidates who could best serve the organization’s future.<\/p>\n

    \n
  • Prior to Announcement:<\/strong> Jasna Vasic completes her five-season tenure as Executive Director. During this period, the organization continues its artistic programming and operational activities.<\/li>\n
  • Selection Process:<\/strong> Musica Viva NY’s leadership, likely including its board of directors and potentially an advisory committee, engages in identifying and evaluating candidates for the Executive Director position. Erinn Sensenig, with her deep involvement as a performer and Production Manager, emerges as a strong contender.<\/li>\n
  • Announcement:<\/strong> Musica Viva NY officially announces Erinn Sensenig’s appointment as the new Executive Director, with her term set to commence on June 1, 2026.<\/li>\n
  • June 1, 2026:<\/strong> Erinn Sensenig officially assumes her duties as Executive Director of Musica Viva NY.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    This timeline suggests a deliberate approach to succession planning, allowing ample time for a smooth handover and for Sensenig to transition into her new responsibilities. The extended timeline also provides an opportunity for Vasic to mentor her successor and ensure continuity in institutional knowledge and strategic initiatives.<\/p>\n

    Supporting Data and Analysis<\/h3>\n

    The appointment of an artist-leader like Erinn Sensenig is a trend observed in the non-profit arts sector, particularly in performing arts organizations. This approach often brings a nuanced understanding of the creative process, the challenges faced by artists, and the intrinsic value of artistic programming. For Musica Viva NY, this could translate into programming decisions that are deeply informed by artistic merit and a keen understanding of audience engagement from a performer’s perspective.<\/p>\n

    The statement by Sensenig highlights a key strength of Musica Viva NY: its strong community fabric and artistic identity. In an era where arts organizations often face funding challenges and evolving audience expectations, a cohesive and well-defined artistic mission is paramount. Sensenig’s emphasis on "artistic ambition, warmth, and dedication" suggests that these core values will continue to be central to the organization’s operations.<\/p>\n

    The dual role of continuing her performing career alongside her executive responsibilities is an interesting aspect of Sensenig’s appointment. While this can offer a unique perspective, it also presents potential challenges related to time management and the inherent demands of both roles. However, for organizations like Musica Viva NY, which thrive on the direct involvement of its artistic personnel, this integration might foster a more authentic and connected leadership style. The success of this dual role will likely depend on effective delegation, strong support staff, and a clear delineation of responsibilities.<\/p>\n

    Broader Impact and Implications<\/h3>\n

    Sensenig’s leadership at Musica Viva NY is likely to have several implications for the organization and the broader choral music community in New York City.<\/p>\n

      \n
    • Artistic Vision Continuity and Evolution:<\/strong> Her deep understanding of Musica Viva NY’s artistic goals, coupled with her personal experience as a performer, suggests a commitment to maintaining the ensemble’s high artistic standards. Simultaneously, her new role may inspire new artistic directions and collaborations, potentially expanding the repertoire and outreach of the organization.<\/li>\n
    • Community Engagement:<\/strong> Sensenig’s emphasis on the "warmth and dedication" of the Musica Viva NY community indicates a focus on nurturing existing relationships with singers, patrons, and collaborators. Her background as a performer also positions her well to connect with the ensemble members on a personal level, fostering a strong sense of shared purpose.<\/li>\n
    • Financial Sustainability:<\/strong> As Executive Director, Sensenig will be responsible for the financial health of Musica Viva NY. Her artistic background might inform fundraising strategies, allowing her to articulate the value of the organization’s artistic mission in compelling ways to potential donors and grant-making bodies. The ability to balance artistic ambition with fiscal responsibility will be crucial.<\/li>\n
    • Innovation and Growth:<\/strong> With a clear artistic identity and a strong community, Musica Viva NY is well-positioned for future growth. Sensenig’s leadership could spearhead innovative programming, explore new performance venues, and enhance digital outreach, thereby broadening the ensemble’s reach and impact. The increasing importance of digital platforms for arts organizations means that exploring these avenues will be key to sustained relevance and accessibility.<\/li>\n
    • Role Model for Artist-Leaders:<\/strong> Sensenig’s appointment serves as an example for other performing arts organizations considering artist-led management. It highlights the potential for artists to bring invaluable insights and passion to administrative roles, enriching the sector as a whole. The success of such appointments can encourage similar transitions, fostering a more artist-centric approach to arts leadership.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      The transition of leadership within any established cultural institution is a critical juncture. For Musica Viva NY, the appointment of Erinn Sensenig signifies a commitment to continuity, artistic integrity, and community engagement. Her deep roots within the organization, combined with her ambition for its future, position her to lead Musica Viva NY through its next chapter, ensuring its continued contribution to the vibrant tapestry of New York City’s musical landscape. Her ability to effectively navigate the dual demands of her performing and administrative roles will be a key factor in her success and the continued flourishing of Musica Viva NY.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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