Newly created joint role to provide leadership in communication strategies and storytelling
Media Contact: Anwar Nasir, anwar.nasir@lpomusic.com, 504-523-6530
Date: March 1, 2023
New Orleans, LA – Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) and the New Orleans Opera Association (NOOA) are pleased to announce the joint appointment of Mariah Forde to the newly created role of Assistant Director of Communications. In this role, Ms. Forde will work in tandem with both organizations to construct strategic communications plans that promote and enhance the organizations’ brands. Additionally, Ms. Forde will work closely with both executive leadership teams to curate forward-thinking narratives that educate, engage, and inspire communities in New Orleans and beyond through media relations and organizational storytelling. Ms. Forde’s appointment was effective beginning February 2023.
“The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra and New Orleans Opera Association are forging progressive pathways toward a heightened sense of awareness around diversity, inclusivity, and relatability in the music world,” says LPO’s Executive Director Anwar Nasir. “We are confident in Mariah’s ability to help us further cement these paths and deepen the relationship between our organizations and the communities we serve.”
Ms. Forde comes to New Orleans from Miami, FL where she most recently served as PR and Social Media Manager with the New World Symphony (NWS), America’s Orchestral Academy, whose mission is to prepare graduates of music programs for leadership roles in professional orchestras and ensembles around the world. While there, Ms. Forde facilitated local and national media relations efforts to promote NWS’s initiatives and led the development and execution of NWS’s social media communications strategies. Under her leadership, NWS’s social media gained a 30% audience increase and expanded its digital footprint by launching the academy’s first-ever TikTok content strategy. She also established new partnerships resulting in first-ever media coverage within Miami’s African American and Caribbean markets.
“This role fortifies the Opera’s vision to connect all people with the joy of opera, and we are very excited for Mariah to be part of this special expansion that aims to move our vision forward,” says New Orleans Opera’s General and Artistic Director Clare Burovac. “Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra and New Orleans Opera have a shared commitment to enhance people’s lives through the power of music, and this partnership will strengthen our organizations as we strive to present high-quality artistic experiences for all audiences.”
In addition to the New World Symphony, Ms. Forde held positions with the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County and the Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center (formerly known as the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center). Her accomplishments include being named a 2021 honoree of Legacy Magazine’s 40 Under 40 Black Leaders of Today and Tomorrow and a member of the Sphinx Organization’s Sphinx LEAD cohort, a 2-year professional development program that provides tools and resources to support Black and Latinx arts administrators.
“What a tremendous honor to be called on to increase visibility and excitement for not just one, but two of New Orleans’ musical powerhouses,” said Mariah Forde. “Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra and New Orleans Opera Association are taking significant strides to expand their reach and impact in the community, and this newly created role is a pivotal step towards achieving this goal.”
Ms. Forde holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL and a master’s degree in Communications Management from the University of Southern California.
ABOUT LOUISIANA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
Steeped in history yet focused on innovation, the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) is the only full-time collaboratively governed and operated orchestra in the United States. Under the leadership of Music Director, Carlos Miguel Prieto, the LPO is rooted in a culturally diverse community with a two-hundred-year orchestral music tradition, the LPO sets the standard for orchestral programming and performance in Louisiana. For our sixty-seven musicians, achieving the highest level of artistry is integrally linked with a personal investment in our organization and our community.
Visit lpomusic.com to learn more.
ABOUT NEW ORLEANS OPERA ASSOCIATION New Orleans Opera Association (NOOA), which began its 80th season July 1, 2022, is committed to its mission of enriching the lives of all people by producing opera of the highest artistic quality and providing educational opportunities through traditional and innovative approaches. NOOA aspires to connect people to the arts and each other through the joy of opera. For more information, see www.NewOrleansOpera.org or call the Box Office at (504) 529-3000.
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