David J. Pacific Named President, CEO Of The Music School Of Delaware

David Pacific will take over as the head of The Music School of Delaware.

The Music School of Delaware has announced the appointment of David J. Pacific as its next President and CEO, following a national search.

He will officially begin his tenure on October 20, 2025.

Pacific, a nationally recognized arts executive and classically trained pianist, brings more than a decade of experience in nonprofit arts leadership, education, and community engagement.

His appointment signals a new chapter for the 100-year-old institution, which serves thousands of music students and audiences across the region.

“There is something truly extraordinary happening at The Music School of Delaware, and it resonates across the entire state,” Pacific said. “To join this community of exceptional music educators, dedicated leaders, and remarkable students as the school’s next President and CEO is an incredible honor—one that has me inspired and overjoyed by the people who are at the heart of what makes the school exceptional.”

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Pacific most recently served as the inaugural Executive Director of the Joseph Avenue Arts and Culture Alliance in Rochester, N.Y., where he led the organization through a period of rapid growth and expanded access to free, high-quality arts programming.

His past roles also include leadership positions with the Southeastern Piano Festival in Columbia, S.C., Steinway and Sons in New York, and Friends of Chamber Music in Kansas City, Mo.

“I am grateful to build on the rich history of The Music School of Delaware as we welcome its next century and invite more people to join us in making music a meaningful part of our lives together,” he said.

Elizabeth Stout, Chair of the school’s CEO Search Committee, said Pacific stood out among candidates for his executive leadership, fundraising acumen, and alignment with the school’s mission.

“Our search focused on identifying a leader who embodies three key qualities: exceptional executive leadership experience in a nonprofit setting, a proven track record in high-volume fundraising, and a deep commitment to embodying the mission of the Music School of Delaware,” she said. “David not only meets, but exceeds all of these criteria. His understanding of and respect for our faculty and staff, his success in building inclusive and accessible arts programs, and his enthusiasm for community engagement make him the right leader for this moment in our school’s evolution.”

Pacific holds degrees in piano performance and pedagogy from Nazareth University and the University of South Carolina.

A longtime music educator, he has taught and mentored students at community music schools across the country and has been recognized for excellence in both piano performance and choral conducting.

In a message to faculty and staff, Pacific emphasized collaboration and community.

“Whether through the commitment of the board, the extraordinary talents of the faculty and staff, or the deep engagement of students and families, it is clear that The Music School of Delaware is much more than a statewide institution—it is a vital, living community devoted to the transformative power of music and music education,” he wrote. “I look forward to listening, learning, and collaborating with all of you to shape a shared vision that strengthens and expands the school’s reach, deepens our impact, and lifts up every member of our community.”