Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra hires new CEO from New York Pops, Omaha Symphony

After the departure of Gary Ginstling, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra has hired a new CEO: James M. Johnson.

Johnson, who will begin his term April 30, comes from the Omaha Symphony Association, where he is the president and CEO. Ginstling left the ISO in September to become executive director of the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, D.C.

In Omaha, Johnson guided the symphony into budget surpluses and endowment growth, according to a release from the ISO. A film series and increased audience attendance and ticket sales were hallmarks of his seven-year tenure there as well. 

Before Omaha, Johnson spent a decade as CEO of the New York Pops, director of operations for the Orchestra of St. Luke's and general manager of the Martha Graham Dance Company.

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In an article for Nebraska Cultural Endowment, the new CEO wrote that he was captivated by the sound of an orchestra as a kid. He took up double bass, playing in orchestras, jazz combos and rock groups, among others.

While he enjoyed performing, he wrote that working with artists is his career sweet spot.

"Professional musicians are among the most intelligent, creative, hardworking, and resourceful people I know. No community can thrive without working artists. Arts leaders — composers, choreographers, and conductors — are off the chart smart. These are society’s bright stars, offering inspiration and making a contribution to the human experience that makes life richer for all of us," Johnson wrote.

Call IndyStar reporter Domenica Bongiovanni at 317-444-7339. Follow her on Facebook, Twitterand Instagram.