The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra is entering a new era as it launches the 2025-26 season under Music Director Cristian Măcelaru, announcing fresh leadership across its board and executive team.
Charla Weiss, a longtime advocate for health equity and community partnerships at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, will serve as the new head of the orchestra’s board of directors. CSO is also welcoming four new members to its board, while introducing Gregory Lee and Hannah Ross to key positions.
“It is an honor to serve as board chair at such a dynamic moment in the life of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra,” said Weiss, who’s been a member of the CSO board since 2018.
“I am deeply grateful to (past Board Chair) Dianne Rosenberg for her exceptional leadership and steady guidance, shaping the path that has brought us to this exciting new chapter,” Weiss added. “I have been inspired by the dedication of my fellow board members over the years, and I am especially excited to welcome four exceptional new colleagues.”
The four new board members, each starting three-year terms Sept. 1, are Nick Apanius, senior vice president of Messer Construction Co.; Emma Compton, in-house counsel for the Cincinnati Bengals; Dean A. Moulas, managing director and principal of Johnson Investment Counsel; and Brett Stover, senior vice president of Kantar Consulting.
New leadership marks new era for CSO
Robert McGrath, who the CSO promoted to CEO and president in January, stressed that Weiss’s leadership style and goals align well with the organization’s commitment to inclusion and access.
“With her leadership, we remain committed to ensuring that the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra is a place where all feel welcomed and inspired,” he said.
McGrath also highlighted the addition of Lee, formerly chief financial officer at Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona, and Ross, previously assistant director for community engagement at the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School, as vital to strengthening the orchestra’s administrative team. In their new roles, Lee and Ross all serve as CFO and director of learning, respectively.
The appointments come as the organization prepares for a season that promises both musical innovation and expanded community engagement under Măcelaru’s direction.
His official debut as the orchestra’s 14th music director on Oct. 3-4, as he conducts a program of works by Anna Clyne, George Gershwin and Richard Strauss at Music Hall. Pianist Hélène Grimaud joins Măcelaru and the CSO for Gershwin’s Piano Concerto in F.
“This is a pivotal moment for the institution, as we welcome both (McGrath) and (Măcelaru),” Weiss said. “I look forward to partnering with them and our remarkable staff and musicians to support the Orchestra’s continued growth and impact.”
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