Executive Artistic Director Cléa Galhano has announced that the 2020–21 season will be her last in that position. When she steps down on June 30, 2021, she will have served as the Conservatory's Director for 15 years.
Cléa has overseen significant growth at the Conservatory, where she has created a host of new programs, expanded our public concert season, established important partnerships throughout the community, and enhanced the organization’s outreach offerings.
"Cléa has been the guiding spirit behind the success of the SPCM for the last fourteen years,” according to SPCM Board of Directors President and retired Minnesota Orchestra violist Michael Adams. “She is such a passionate and persuasive advocate for bringing the gift of music into people's lives. It is because of her vision that the SPCM has flourished in its mission to bring high quality music education to students of all ages and abilities. Cléa is the rare administrator who also brings high artistic credibility to the job, as she is a such a highly-respected performer and teacher.”
You can read the full press release announcing Cléa's departure here. The SPCM Board of Directors has formed a search committee that will work over the coming year to identify our next Director. Cléa looks forward to continuing to pursue her artistic career, perform, give workshops, and teach at Macalester College and Indiana University.
“It has been an honor and privilege to serve SPCM throughout these years,” says Cléa. “SPCM has been my community, where I could always dare to imagine new ideas and realize new dreams. I am humbled by the support that I have received over the years. I wish to thank all who have played a part in developing and expanding the Conservatory: our Board of Directors, the wonderful staff and faculty, generous donors and foundations, and, above all, the inspiring students and community. Our passion for providing Music for All will continue to empower our faculty artists and students to bring the beauty of music to all segments of society and create a better community.”
Throughout the Conservatory’s 2020–21 season, we will celebrate our 20th anniversary as an independent nonprofit organization, culminating in an Anniversary Concert on Thursday, May 13, 2021 that will celebrate Clea and her directorship.