Asheville Music School announces new executive director

Asheville Music School Board of Directors announces their new Executive Director, Charlotte Sommers. Charlotte has been working for AMS as Development Director since January 2015, and has been instrumental in securing numerous grants and new fundraising opportunities for the school, and will continue to do so as Executive Director.

Charlotte brings with her a wealth of arts-related nonprofit experience. While living in Maryland, she was the Executive Director of BlackRock Center for the Arts, a Washington D.C.-based nonprofit performing arts and education center with a $1.4 million operating budget. Charlotte booked and managed an annual season of 40 national touring artists and ensembles in jazz, classical, folk, and pop music; oversaw the education program, including classes and summer camps in music, dance, theater, and visual arts. She also led the organization through the 2008 recession without major program or staff cuts, led the annual fundraising campaign, and played a major role in the record-breaking 10th Anniversary Gala fundraiser.

As a career arts administrator who has held leadership positions in major arts organizations for more than 15 years, Charlotte has succeeded in working with boards and staff members to sustain and expand programming through sound fiscal management, strategic planning, fundraising, and by forging community partnerships. We know she will continue to put her skills to work at Asheville Music School and are thrilled to have her as our new Executive Director.

“The positive impact that AMS music education and outreach programming is making in our community cannot be overstated," says Charlotte. "I am excited about the opportunity to lead the organization in finding ways to build our capacity and broaden our reach.”