The South Bend Symphony Orchestra announces the upcoming departure of Executive Director Justus Zimmerman, whose tenure will conclude at the end of January 2025. As the Symphony transitions to new leadership, it remains firmly committed to its mission to inspire, entertain, and connect the community by delivering world-class music. Zimmerman’s tenure has been marked by transformative growth and innovation, leaving the Symphony poised for sustained artistic and operational success.
Over the past five years, the South Bend Symphony has achieved remarkable milestones. Ticket sales have increased by over 70% compared to pre-pandemic levels, and donor contributions have nearly doubled. These accomplishments reflect the organization’s resilience and ability to thrive in challenging times. The Symphony has solidified its role as a cultural cornerstone by fostering strong community partnerships and emphasizing artistic excellence.
During Zimmerman’s tenure, the Symphony deepened its engagement with both musicians and patrons, fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment. Strategic investments in community outreach and artistic initiatives expanded the Symphony’s reach, ensuring its music resonates throughout the region.
“The Symphony is incredibly grateful for Justus’s leadership and dedication,” said Board of Directors President Dr. Marvin V. Curtis. “We are excited to build on this strong foundation and continue to inspire and unite our community through music.”
“South Bend is a special place, and there is no question both the region and the Symphony are poised for more growth and more impact,” wrote Zimmerman.
The Symphony remains focused on the future, with plans for a seamless leadership transition to be announced in the coming weeks. The 2024-25 Season promises an exciting lineup of performances, reaffirming that the Symphony’s commitment to artistic excellence and community enrichment will continue unabated.
About the South Bend Symphony Orchestra
The South Bend Symphony inspires the community with the transformative power of orchestral music in all its forms by producing 20 mainstage programs, serving more than 29,000 attendees annually. As the region’s only professional orchestra, the Symphony is committed to diverse sound and a robust arts community in Michiana that entertains and connects people to music.
In addition to being recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts and other state and local arts funding organizations, the South Bend Symphony Orchestra is the recipient of the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County’s Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence, which recognizes the best-run nonprofit organization in St. Joseph County, Indiana.