News from Britt Hill – December 2021/January 2022

After 11 years with Britt Music and Arts Festival, I will retire soon, so this is my last “News from the Hill” column. With approximately 110 columns (about 11 a year) under my belt, you’d think I might have run out of things to say. Yet that hasn’t happened, largely because I decided early on that each of my columns would focus on how Britt fulfills its mission, and in doing so, justify your continued support. In this final column, however, I want to share some reflections on my time as Britt’s CEO with you.

Over the years I have often thought, “It is really special that I am getting to experience this.” Particularly, when I’m sitting at the top of the hill watching a concert unfold before my eyes—witnessing the artist’s and patron’s joy, the lights illuminating from our beautiful stage, and the magnificent hillside view—such a privilege.

A second aspect of the job that I have greatly appreciated was working with teams of professionals who were dedicated to Britt’s mission. I’ve had the good fortune of working with different Boards of Directors (to whom I have reported), a dedicated staff, the City of Jacksonville, and amazing volunteers. These are the people who keep the magic going. No leader accomplishes anything alone and so many people were involved in our truly transformative achievements. Thank you.

Early on as CEO, after developing our strategic plan, we worked it. This plan helped guide many of our activities and provided a context for governance and staff decision-making, and resource allocation including the significant capital improvement projects over the past eight years. For newcomers to the valley, unfortunately, they have no context. But for those of us who knew Britt before, the substantial makeover really is quite something. Furthermore, since 2016, Britt has successfully purchased three properties: two in Jacksonville and our administrative office in Medford. With these real estate holdings (assets), Britt will be able to address additional venue needs and upgrades well into the future.

Our artistic accomplishments were equal to or greater than our fiscal successes. Under the leadership of our brilliant Music Director, Teddy Abrams, our beloved Britt Festival Orchestra embraced innovation and commissioned many world premieres including Michael Gordon’s commission to write the Crater Lake-inspired piece, Natural History, Kenji Bunch’s Song of Sasquatch, and Bull Frogs Croon, a song cycle composed by Aoife O’Donovan, Jeremy Kittel, and Teddy Abrams. The creative list goes on and on… Just as the Britt Presents season went on and on, we offered amazing “first time to Britt” artists,” such as The Decemberists, The Piano Guys, Hollywood Vampires, Jeff Dunham, Brett Young, and Robert Plant—to name a few.

Britt’s robust year-round education programs also flourished as a result of broad-based community support. Visioning for 2022 and beyond includes our continued partnerships with the Medford School District and Southern Oregon University, and the expansion of BrittKids Klub, BrittKids Koncerts, residencies, and fellowships.

Although there are many achievements that have given me pride during my tenure, there are certain matters I wish had gone better. As an organizational leader, one must embody humility and take ownership for one’s shortcomings. In hindsight, I wish we could have found a better way to communicate with concerned stakeholders. Whether it be sitting vs. standing, smoking vs. non-smoking, proof of vaccine/negative test, decibel levels or alcohol policies, at times, the organization struggled with effective and satisfying communication.

In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Britt’s Board of Directors for giving me the opportunity to be CEO of this treasured jewel and to the Britt staff for putting up with me! I leave Britt Music and Arts Festival with fond memories of the last 11 years and with relationships that will continue well beyond my retirement. I also believe that I leave Britt well-positioned to meet the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. It has been a privilege to serve our community. And I look forward to seeing you on the Hill as a fellow patron in the coming years.