Kim noltemy,enthusiastically welcomed mitch Bassion,expressing confidence in his ability to thrive in the dynamic Los Angeles cultural landscape. She highlighted his impressive track record and expertise gained from collaborating with premier cultural institutions nationwide, emphasizing his proven success navigating complex institutional transitions, notably his pivotal role in merging a leading symphony orchestra with a major performing arts centre. Noltemy believes Bassion’s innovative and bold approach will be invaluable to the LA Phil, an organization he knows well and where he has deep connections.
As Chief Philanthropy Officer, bassion’s role will be integral to the LA Phil‘s strategic decision-making process.
collaborating closely with the CEO, Board of Directors, and executive team, he will spearhead the development and implementation of strategies to maximize contributions, ensuring alignment with the LA Phil’s mission, strategic goals, and priorities. He will act as a key ambassador for the organization, leading and inspiring a highly skilled team of senior development professionals.
Moreover, Bassion will be responsible for cultivating and nurturing relationships with the organization’s Board of Directors, working hand-in-hand with Noltemy.
Expressing his excitement, Bassion shared his deep admiration for the LA Phil’s artistry, community engagement, and unwavering commitment to excellence. he is eager to join the LA Phil at this pivotal moment in its history,collaborating with Kim Noltemy,Gustavo Dudamel,the Board of Directors,and the dedicated teams that make the LA Phil a world-renowned leader in the performing arts.
Currently serving as the inaugural Chief Philanthropy Officer at The Philadelphia Orchestra and Kimmel Center, Bassion leads a team of 28 professionals.
His leadership has been instrumental in raising over $220 million through collaborative efforts with staff, board members, volunteers, and musicians.Prior to his role in Philadelphia, Bassion held prominent positions at esteemed organizations like Washington Performing Arts, Los angeles Conservancy, Los Angeles Opera, Seattle Opera, and Lyric Opera of Chicago.
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How does Mitch Bassion’s previous experience influence his approach to philanthropy in the performing arts?
Q&A with Mitch Bassion: Pioneering Philanthropy in the Los Angeles Performing Arts Scene
Interviewer: kim Noltemy, Editor of Time.news
Kim Noltemy (KN): Welcome, Mitch! We’re thrilled to have you step into the role of Chief philanthropy Officer at the LA Phil. With your deep connections and extensive experience in the cultural sector, how do you envision your impact in this dynamic landscape?
Mitch bassion (MB): Thank you, Kim! I share your excitement about this possibility.The LA Phil is a cornerstone of the cultural fabric in Los Angeles, and I’m eager to contribute to it’s legacy of artistry and community engagement. My goal is to pilot innovative strategies that align with our mission and amplify our fundraising efforts to ensure we continue to thrive.
KN: Your previous experience includes meaningful roles at esteemed organizations like the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Los Angeles Opera. Can you highlight a key challenge you’ve faced in the past and how you overcame it?
MB: Certainly! One of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences was during my time merging a leading symphony orchestra with a major performing arts center.It required navigating complex institutional transitions, fostering open communication, and building relationships among diverse stakeholders. By being clear and collaborative, we were not only able to streamline operations but also enhance the community’s connection to the arts.
KN: That’s impressive! Given the current cultural climate, what strategies do you believe will be crucial in maximizing contributions for the LA Phil?
MB: I believe that understanding our audience and engaging them meaningfully is vital. Strategies involving personalized outreach and establishing genuine relationships will be pivotal. Additionally, leveraging digital platforms to widen our reach and accessibility can help attract new supporters. Collaborating closely with the Board of directors and our executive team will also ensure that our fundraising initiatives are aligned with the LA Phil’s strategic goals.
KN: As you look ahead,what excites you most about joining the LA Phil team,especially collaborating with influential figures like Gustavo Dudamel?
MB: The idea of working alongside Gustavo Dudamel is truly inspiring. His visionary leadership and dedication to the community exemplify what makes the LA Phil exceptional. I’m also excited about the opportunity to help shape our outreach strategies to ensure diverse, vibrant participation in the performing arts, making it accessible to all Angelenos.
KN: As an ambassador for the LA phil, how do you plan to nurture relationships within the organization and broader community?
MB: Building and nurturing relationships is one of my top priorities. I aim to create an habitat where open dialog thrives, allowing our senior development team, board members, and community to feel genuinely involved in our mission. Volunteering,community outreach,and hosting events are excellent ways to strengthen these bonds.
KN: Your track record indicates a remarkable ability to raise funds. What practical advice would you give to aspiring professionals in the arts fundraising sector?
MB: First and foremost, be authentic in your interactions. The arts community thrives on relationships built on trust. Secondly, continuously educate yourself about philanthropic strategies and trends in the arts sector. Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of storytelling; conveying the mission and impact of your organization can powerfully resonate with potential donors.
KN: Thank you, Mitch, for sharing your insights and experiences. We’re looking forward to seeing how your unique approach can shape the future of the LA Phil!
MB: Thank you, Kim! I’m eager to contribute to the LA Phil’s remarkable journey.Together, let’s enrich our community through the transformative power of music and the arts.