San Diego Symphony’s Martha Gilmer Named 2026 Impresario of the Year

San Diego Symphony’s President and CEO, Martha Gilmer, has been honored as Musical America’s 2026 Impresario of the Year. This prestigious recognition was announced on the morning of October 3, 2023, marking Gilmer as only the second recipient of this title in the publication’s 127-year history. The first was Michael Kaiser, former president of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, who received the award in 2007.

In a statement, Fred Cohn, features editor of Musical America International Directory of the Performing Arts, praised Gilmer’s transformative impact on the San Diego Symphony Orchestra. “Martha Gilmer’s Impresario of the Year award recognizes her extraordinary efforts on behalf of the San Diego Symphony Orchestra. Her work has not only transformed the organization; it has had a significant impact on the community as a whole,” he said.

Gilmer, who has led the San Diego Symphony since 2014, expressed her gratitude and humility regarding the award. “I hope to accept this award on behalf of all the people who have gotten our cultural institutions through some particularly tight times,” she told the San Diego Union-Tribune. Her leadership has been pivotal in navigating challenges and enhancing the orchestra’s role in the community.

Significant Achievements During Gilmer’s Tenure

Under Gilmer’s leadership, the San Diego Symphony has undertaken significant initiatives, including the appointment of Rafael Payare as Music and Artistic Director in 2019. The opening of The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park in 2021, a state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue costing $85 million, stands as a testament to her vision. Additionally, the $163 million renovation of the Jacobs Music Center has reinvigorated the orchestra’s indoor venue, which reopened in 2022 after extensive redesign and construction.

“The leadership of the San Diego Symphony had big dreams,” Gilmer reflected on her journey. Her previous experience as Vice President for Artistic Planning and Audience Development at the Chicago Symphony has informed her strategic direction in San Diego.

Cohn emphasized the significance of Gilmer’s recognition, stating, “We don’t usually give these honors to producers/presenters/impresarios. Something has happened in San Diego that hasn’t happened at America’s long-established musical institutions. Martha has moved your orchestra and its operations to a whole new level.”

Community Engagement and Future Aspirations

Payare echoed the sentiment of Gilmer’s visionary leadership, noting their productive partnership. “From the very beginning, she has worked tirelessly on behalf of the San Diego Symphony, constantly inspiring everyone within the organization through her remarkable leadership,” he stated.

Despite facing unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Gilmer’s efforts have led to the San Diego Symphony achieving remarkable artistic heights and gaining broader recognition. The orchestra now boasts two world-class venues, enhancing its presence both locally and nationally.

Looking ahead, Gilmer aims to expand the orchestra’s reach through more recordings and international tours. “It’s imperative that people, the stakeholders, feel included and that their ideas are heard,” she emphasized. Gilmer is also dedicated to ensuring the orchestra remains intertwined with the community by bringing music to various local venues, including medical facilities and correctional institutions.

Her recent accolades, including the 2025 Director of the Year from the Corporate Directors Forum and the 2024 Cool Women honor by the Girl Scouts of San Diego, further highlight her influence and commitment to the arts.

As the San Diego Symphony continues to thrive under her leadership, Gilmer’s recognition as Impresario of the Year underscores the orchestra’s evolving role as a vital cultural resource within the community.