Page 43 - 2022-Spring Summer Magazine_FINAL Single_Neat

Then, rising above the deafening voices of his own self-
doubt, an unfamiliar cadence emerged–the rhythmic
drumming of approaching feet. He stole a glance back
to catch the quickly disappearing silhouette of a fellow
competitor who had reached the same fork, and turned
left–toward the remaining half of the course. The man
was a double-amputee, undoubtedly facing a far more
challenging finish–yet he persevered. Gritting his teeth,
David followed.

Four years later and a lifetime removed, Palm Beach
Symphony was quickly approaching a turning point of its
own. For nearly four decades, the institution had served
the community—hosting sophisticated, though modest
concerts for its loyal but admittedly aging demographic.
While surviving for 40 years is a success by any measure,
the Symphony’s database was dwindling and years of
six-figure operational losses had brought the once proud
organization to the brink.

Having grown up locally, David was well aware of the
Symphony’s prestigious history—but its dormant
potential was what intrigued and frustrated him as
incoming CEO. The status quo would simply not do;
immediate changes were necessary to recapture the
former glory.

Fortunately, David had a game plan. One honed by
his competitive nature, physical training, and years
commanding businesses and nonprofits. At its core were
three essential pillars: Palm Beach Symphony would set a
course to Engage, Educate, and Entertain.

Now with its Golden Anniversary nearing, the
turnaround has been nothing short of theatrical.

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