The Erie Philharmonic Orchestra introduced its new executive director, Bobby Pape, to the community at a Monday morning news conference. Pape received a warm welcome from Erie Mayor Joe Schember and an enthusiastic introduction from Erie Philharmonic Music Director Daniel Meyer.

Pape brings over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit performing arts sector to his new role. Pape began his career in arts management with the Buffalo Philharmonic and later held senior leadership positions with the Albany Symphony. 

He expressed his excitement about joining the Erie Philharmonic and working alongside Meyer, the talented musicians, and the dedicated staff of the orchestra.

Pape said he's eager to build on the orchestra’s historic legacy. "It's a world class professional ensemble and that has everything to do with Daniel and the folks who recruit our musicians. The repertoire that he picks and plays, the incredible restoration of the Warner and the wonderful space we get to play in. Everything has come together here for an orchestra that went from being great when Daniel got here to better and better while he's been here and I'm just lucky to get to come on to something that's rowing in the right direction."  

Pape was most recently executive director of Blue Heron, a professional early music chamber ensemble based in Boston.  He grew up near Rochester, NY and said he already feels right at home in Erie.