Category Logo

Knoxville Symphony Orchestra hires new director of operations

August 16, 2016

The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra has hired Rose Sampley as the new director of operations. She will oversee scheduling and production of all orchestral events – rehearsals, performances, tours, community concerts – and ensure events run smoothly, effectively and in a financially responsible manner. Sampley comes with experience in set construction and technical coordination in a performing arts environment. She joined the KSO staff Aug. 1.

Rose has a background in technical theater, previously working as a technical coordinator for Clayton Center for the Arts and interning as a technical assistant with Prague Shakespeare Company in Prague, Czech Republic. Her educational experience includes international business and theater studies with a focus in set construction. Being a former cellist with the Center for Creative Arts’ String Orchestra, she could not be more excited for this incredible opportunity.

Executive Director Rachel Ford said, “Rose will certainly be an asset to the KSO production team because of her technical experience. In addition to executing the backstage end of all KSO productions and rehearsals, including hiring lighting and sound vendors and working with venue staff, she will act as production/stage manager for all performances and arrange guest artist itinerary, lodging, travel and hospitality. Her youth and passion for the arts will certainly add to the energy of the KSO staff.”

The KSO performs approximately 200 performances per season including main stage concerts, education and community concerts, and collaboration activities with local opera, ballet and other community partners throughout the season. The KSO will host numerous world-renowned guest artists this season who travel from all over the world to perform in Knoxville with our talented orchestra.

About the KSO

Established in 1935, and now under the leadership of Music Director Aram Demirjian, the KSO has contributed to the cultural life in East Tennessee continuously for 80 years, providing excellence in musical and educational programs. The Orchestra consists of 80 professional musicians and performs 250 programs throughout the region each season, reaching audiences of more than 200,000 people. The KSO performs in traditional venues such as the Tennessee Theatre, Bijou Theatre and the Civic Auditorium as well as non-traditional places like hospitals, schools, city parks and churches. For more information regarding the KSO, please visit www.knoxvillesymphony.com or call 865-291-3310.