Executive Director, Gerard Gibbs, Steps Down From Role

     Abilene, TX – The Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra announced today that Gerard Gibbs, Executive Director, is stepping down from his position to pursue personal artistic endeavors and assist his spouse in starting a new business. Gibbs, a professional oboist, joined the Philharmonic in 2022 from Frederick, Maryland where he previously served as executive director of New Spire Arts. During Gibbs’ tenure in Abilene, the Orchestra returned to the Convention Center Auditorium for its first full-length concert season since the COVID-19 pandemic.

     Mandy Gollihar, outgoing President of the APO Board of Governors, praised Gibbs for his contributions to the organization, saying “During his time at the helm, Gerard worked tirelessly to secure new grant funding and expand our programming to bring more music to our community. His gifts for marketing and artistic programming have helped us grow our reach and forge deeper relationships with the Abilene community. We are grateful for his service and wish him the best.”

     Gibbs expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Abilene Philharmonic, saying “I am grateful for the opportunity to have served as Executive Director of the Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra. It has been an honor to work with such a talented group of musicians and staff, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together. I look forward to seeing the orchestra continue to thrive in the future.”

     The Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra has commenced the search for a new Executive Director, with civic volunteer Tiffany Lamb serving as Search Committee chair. The Board of Governors is working closely with the orchestra’s staff to ensure a smooth transition. Gollihar, whose term as board president ended May 31, will serve as acting Executive Director during the search process. The Board of Governors will now be led by Joe Biles, an employee of BGI, L.L.C. at Dyess Air Force Base and adjunct faculty member at Abilene Christian University.

     Since its establishment in 1950, the mission of the Abilene Philharmonic has been to unleash “the power of music to entertain, educate, and inspire through live symphonic music and community engagement.”