Jason Subotky to Lead Los Angeles Philharmonic: A New Era Begins

In a significant development for the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association, Jason Subotky has been elected as the new Board Chair, effective October 1, 2024. Subotky succeeds Thomas L. Beckmen, who has served as Board Chair since 2019. Beckmen will continue to serve on the LA Phil Board, ensuring a smooth transition and continued guidance for the organization.

Subotky joined the LA Phil’s Board of Directors in 2019 and currently sits on the management committee. He expressed his deep appreciation for the opportunity, stating, “It is an honor of a lifetime to be elected Board Chair of the LA Phil. As an enthusiastic fan of the orchestra from my student days, I am honored to work with and learn from the remarkable Directors, the brilliant leadership, and the incomparable Music and Artistic Director, Gustavo Dudamel, as well as the members of the orchestra.”

This transition comes at an exciting moment for the LA Phil, as Subotky looks forward to helping the organization build on its storied history and achieve even greater things ahead. He added, “On behalf of the Board, I express our endless thanks to Thomas Beckmen for his twenty years of service to the LA Phil. As Board Chair, his knowledge, integrity, resilience, and passion have guided us through the pandemic and taken the organization to new heights, enhancing the LA Phil’s reputation as one of the top musical organizations.”

Subotky’s Background and Vision

Jason Subotky is not only a trained musician but also a seasoned professional in the financial sector. He received his bachelor’s degree in piano performance from the University of Southern California and an MBA from Brigham Young University. Subotky has worked at his family office and as Vice President at Goldman Sachs before joining Yacktman Asset Management in 2001, where he is currently a Partner and Portfolio Manager. His marriage to violinist Anne Akiko Meyers further cements his deep connection to the world of music.

LA Phil President & Chief Executive Officer David C. Bohnett and CEO Chair Kim Noltemy expressed their excitement about Subotky’s new role. “We are thrilled to congratulate Jason Subotky on his new role as Board Chair. His reputation for strategic acumen, lifelong passion for music, and deep knowledge of the LA Phil organization precede him. We look forward to his guidance as the LA Phil moves into a new era.”

Philanthropic Support and Community Engagement

The Los Angeles Philharmonic Association is supported by a robust network of donors and board members, including notable names such as Drew Susan, Richard and Elizabeth Barbatelli, Stephanie Barron, and many others. These individuals and foundations play a crucial role in sustaining the organization’s activities and ensuring its growth.

The Youth Orchestra Los Angeles (YOLA) and the Judith and Thomas L. Beckmen YOLA Center are among the key initiatives that have benefited from this support. These programs aim to provide music education and opportunities to young musicians from underserved communities, fostering the next generation of artists and audiences.

Financial Transparency and Accountability

The Los Angeles Philharmonic Association is recognized as a tax-exempt organization and files Form 990 annually. This form provides a detailed account of the organization’s financial activities, ensuring transparency and accountability. The IRS releases these documents in both page images and raw data formats, which are useful for researchers and analysts.

Summary data from the IRS includes information processed from 2012 to 2019, covering fiscal years from 2011 to 2018. This data release includes a subset of full Form 990s and links to PDFs and digital copies of the documents. Additionally, the organization undergoes audits if it spends $750,000 or more in federal grant money in a single fiscal year. These audits are available from the Federal Audit Clearinghouse.

Our Advice on the City

Los Angeles is a city that thrives on its rich cultural tapestry, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic is a cornerstone of this vibrant arts scene. For occasional travelers, attending a performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall is a must. The hall’s stunning architecture and acoustics provide an unforgettable experience, making it a highlight of any visit to the city.

For expert travelers, consider exploring the various community programs and educational initiatives offered by the LA Phil. Engaging with these programs provides a deeper understanding of the organization’s impact and its commitment to fostering a love for music across diverse communities.

In conclusion, the election of Jason Subotky as the new Board Chair marks a significant milestone for the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association. His leadership promises to usher in a new era of growth and innovation, building on the strong foundation laid by his predecessors. Whether you are a casual visitor or a seasoned traveler, the LA Phil offers a wealth of experiences that enrich the cultural landscape of Los Angeles.