Photo Credit: Nicole Haun
Annapolis, MD – The Annapolis Symphony Orchestra (ASO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Erica Bondarev Rapach as its new Interim Executive Director. With her extensive background in arts management, brand innovation, and change leadership, Erica brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the ASO, positioning the organization for continued success and sustainability.
Erica’s leadership is defined by creativity and social responsibility. She has a proven track record of building strong, engaged communities. She has held key arts marketing and executive management positions at The Washington Ballet, Theater Alliance of DC, The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at the University of Maryland, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and the .ART domain registry. She is an adjunct faculty in the Graduate Arts Management program at American University, of which she is also an alum. Her career is deeply rooted in advocating for the arts and driving meaningful cultural change.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Erica recently launched a startup that designs textiles using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and is a Remake Ambassador, advocating for fair wages and environmentally responsible practices in the fashion industry. She is authoring a book on personal brand leadership and how we can all leverage change for the greater good.
“I am honored to join the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra at this important moment in its more than 63 year history,” said Bondarev Rapach. “I’m committed to working closely with the dedicated staff, the board, and the broader community to enhance our impact, build sustainability, and lay the groundwork for the new, permanent Executive Director.
A classically trained violinist, Erica served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Russia, where she played with the Volgograd Symphony Orchestra and organized the ensemble’s first U.S. tour. This informed her deep understanding of the transformative power of the arts and launched her now 20-year arts management career.
“We are delighted to have Erica step into the role of Interim Executive Director for the ASO” said Shelley Row, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “Her insightful leadership, experience in the arts, and passion for innovation make her the ideal person to guide us. We are confident that she will help us strengthen our operational foundation while preparing the organization for its next chapter.”
Erica will serve as Interim Executive Director until at least February 2025 while the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra’s board of directors has engaged Arts Consulting Group in the search for the permanent ED.
