University Musical Society

The University Musical Society (UMS), based at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, is one of the oldest performing arts presenters in the United States. With a rich history that spans over 145 years, UMS has been dedicated to inspiring individuals and enriching communities by connecting audiences and artists in uncommon and engaging experiences. UMS contributes to the cultural vibrancy of Southeast Michigan by presenting a diverse range of music, dance, and theater performances each season, typically numbering between 60 and 75 events. In addition to live performances, UMS is actively involved in commissioning new works, sponsoring artist residencies, and organizing collaborative projects with various local, national, and international partners. The organization's commitment to education and community engagement is evident through its offering of over 100 free educational activities each season. These initiatives cater to a wide audience, including K-12 students, university faculty and students, families, adults, and cultural and ethnic communities. UMS aims to ignite a lifelong passion for creativity and the performing arts through these learning experiences. UMS has been recognized for its contributions to the arts with the prestigious National Medal of Arts in 2014, awarded by the President of the United States at the White House. This honor reflects UMS's dedication to bringing world-class performing arts to the public and facilitating a dialogue between artists and audiences through various public programs and learning opportunities. Leadership at UMS has been marked by a legacy of visionary individuals. The current president, Matthew VanBesien, took over the role in 2017, succeeding Ken Fischer, who served for 30 years. VanBesien is the seventh president in the organization's history, following notable predecessors such as Henry Simmons Frieze, Alexander Winchell, Francis Kelsey, Charles Sink, Gail Rector, and Ken Fischer. Prior to his role at UMS, VanBesien served as the executive director and president of the New York Philharmonic, where he developed innovative programs and fostered educational partnerships. UMS's history of leadership also includes President Emeritus Ken Fischer, who led the organization from 1987 to 2017. Fischer's tenure was characterized by artistic growth, expansion of education programs, and financial stability. Under his guidance, UMS received the National Medal of Arts and expanded its programming and audience engagement. Gail Rector and Charles A. Sink are other notable figures in UMS's leadership history. Rector served as Executive Director and then President from 1957 to 1987, earning respect in the international community of performing artists and presenters. Sink, known as the Dean of Concert Managers, led UMS from 1927 to 1968 and was instrumental in developing the Choral Union Series and May Festivals as models of artistic achievement. UMS's home at the University of Michigan is acknowledged as being on land granted by the Anishinaabeg, including Odawa, Ojibwe, and Bodéwadmi, and the organization recognizes the importance of understanding the history and ongoing consequences of this land's origins. UMS continues to play a pivotal role in the performing arts scene, offering a platform for both renowned and emerging artists, and fostering a community where the arts are an integral part of people's lives.