Normal office hours for The Dearborn Symphony are Monday through Friday, 10:00am – 3:00pm.
If you need to visit the office, call 313.565-2424 to get directions.
The Dearborn Symphony can be reached by phone at: 313.565-2424.
Email: info@dearbornsymphony.org
OFFICE MANAGER-Dennis Carter
Librarian – Seth Larson
Personnel Manager – John Hartwick
James Clements, Executive Director
The Dearborn Orchestral Society, Inc. is thrilled to announce the appointment of James Clements as the new Executive Director of the Dearborn Symphony. As the Symphony embarks on its 63rd season, this exciting leadership transition signals a period of growth and renewed vision under Clements’ expert guidance.
John Matthews, President of the Dearborn Orchestral Society, shared his enthusiasm: “We are incredibly fortunate to have James join us as Executive Director. His extensive background in arts administration, coupled with his passion for equitable arts programming, makes him the ideal leader to propel the Dearborn Symphony into its next chapter.”
Clements brings a wealth of experience to his new role, with a distinguished career spanning 20 years in nonprofit organizations. His commitment to promoting the arts is evident from his tenure as Assistant Director of Education and Community Engagement at Palm Beach Opera in Florida, where he made significant strides in school and community participation. His professional journey also includes developing arts programs for a growing church, serving on a public school board of education, and directing high school and community theater productions. Clements holds a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in arts administration.
In his new role, Clements will oversee all aspects of the Symphony’s operations, including fundraising, marketing, financial management, community engagement, and artistic programming in collaboration with Music Director Steven Jarvi. Clement’s vision and expertise are expected to elevate the Dearborn Symphony’s standing in Dearborn and the surrounding communities.
“I cannot express how delighted I am to be joining the Dearborn Symphony family,” says Clements. “I look forward to working with the talented musicians, dedicated staff, and passionate supporters. Together with Maestro Jarvi and the entire Board, I am confident that we can impact our communities through the transformative power of music.”
Music Director Steven Jarvi also expressed his excitement: “James’ appointment is a tremendous asset to the Symphony. His proven track record in arts management and his dedication to fostering community engagement will be invaluable as we continue to build on our legacy of musical excellence.”
Clements succeeds Executive Director Wendy Baggett, a longtime member of the Board of Directors who stepped into the role in June 2021. Wendy reflects on her time as Executive Director: “It has been an honor to serve the Dearborn Symphony. I am confident that James will bring fresh ideas and boundless energy to this position, and I look forward to supporting him during this transition and beyond.”
Contact James at james@dearbornsymphony.org.