Anthony Pierce

Anthony Pierce (he/him) is a results-driven professional with more than 20 years of arts management experience, specializing in artistic planning and collaboration. Currently serving as the Chief Artistic Officer at the Colorado Symphony, Anthony has a long record of accomplishment of transforming cultural institutions to better connect with and reflect the communities they support. 

In his role at the Colorado Symphony, Anthony oversees all aspects of artistic administration and planning, orchestral operations, and education for this classical performing arts institution. The orchestra boasts an annual operating budget of $20 million, with 80 full-time musicians, and an annual calendar of more than 150 performances. The symphony’s partnership with the Mexican Cultural Center is a particular source of pride for Anthony, both in expanding the symphony’s artistic repertoire as well as promoting greater diversity and inclusion. Anthony has also played a critical role in leveraging local assets, such as the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where the Colorado Symphony has established this venue as a marquee destination for any artist’s initial collaboration with a symphonic ensemble.  

Anthony’s experience extends far beyond Colorado. For example, he has worked as the Principal Artistic Planner for the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra Te Tira Pūoro o Aotearoa, where he was tasked to diversify and energize all aspects of artistic planning. He worked directly with the Music Director and musicians, launching a wide range of initiatives to cultivate new audiences throughout New Zealand. 

Prior to his role at the Colorado Symphony, Anthony served as the Director of Artistic Operations at the Charleston (South Carolina) Symphony Orchestra, where he was responsible for all aspects of artistic and orchestral operations. Before entering the music industry, he cultivated an expertise in financial accounting and reporting with KPMG LLP in Nashville, Tennessee. 

Anthony’s journey began by earning degrees in Accounting and Music from Furman University, and he received a Master of Accountancy from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He is also a Certified Public Accountant (Inactive), credentialed by the Tennessee State Board of Accountancy. 

Anthony Pierce’s passion for transforming cultural institutions and his ability to inspire and lead collaborative teams make him an exciting and vital force in the arts management world, where he ensures that these institutions remain vibrant, relevant and connected to their communities.