Professional Studies faculty Megan Ihnen (MM ’09, Voice) and Hopkins Symphony Orchestra conductor Jed Gaylin (DMA ’95, Conducting) were named two of Musical America’s Top 30 Professionals of the Year.
Ihnen was recognized for her role as Executive Director of Live Music Project, a multi-city concert calendar. LMP supports thousands of performers, composers, and venues, while remaining entirely free to the public and serving approximately 200,000 users annually. Under her leadership, LMP has expanded from a Seattle-focused initiative into a national and international cultural resource, supported by over $100,000 in grant funding secured during her tenure. She has also strengthened its Spontaneous Free Tickets program, which attracts many first-time audience members.
Gaylin was recognized for his 25 years of collaborative, welcoming leadership at both the Hopkins and Bay Atlantic Symphonies. He is especially noted for his programming of diverse, challenging, and contemporary works.