The Heifetz International Music Institute will launch a national search for its next leader after President and CEO Benjamin Roe announced plans to retire.
After 12 years with the organization, Roe will retire on Sept. 30 at the close of the 30th anniversary season. He will assume the title of president emeritus and has agreed to help with the transition to new leadership for the Staunton-based institute.
The search for his successor will begin in coming months.
“We approach this transition from a position of strength,” said Amy Seto, Heifetz board vice chair. “As Heifetz enters its fourth decade, we are energized by the opportunities ahead and deeply grateful that Ben will continue to play an important role in the institute’s future as president emeritus.”
Roe said that “leading Heifetz has been one of the great privileges” of his professional life.
“I look forward to supporting the institute’s continued growth and watching the next generation of extraordinary musicians shape the future of our art form.”
From its humble beginnings three decades ago with just 20 students, the organization now boasts more than 2,200 alumni.
Roe led a digital transformation of Heifetz during the pandemic creating an immersive learning environment for students across 14 countries. The institute has a YouTube channel with more than 18 million views and 65,000 subscribers.
Heifetz presents more than 60 concerts each summer, offers more than 20 free performances annually and brings music into schools and community spaces through the Heifetz on Tour and the Heifetz Ensemble in Residence programs.
“Ben has led Heifetz through a period of extraordinary growth, artistic ambition and strategic momentum,” said Bruce Rosenblum, board chair. “He honored the founder’s vision while building the institutional strength necessary for the next generation.”
The institute was founded by renowned violinist Daniel Heifetz in 1996.
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Crystal Graham
