Dear Encore Singers,
After much thought and reflection, I have decided to step down as Artistic Director of Encore Creativity for Older Adults, with my last day being Friday, January 31st.
This decision wasn’t easy, as my time with Encore has been meaningful and rewarding. Working with all of you – our singers – has been a true privilege. Your commitment to building community through singing has made Encore a uniquely special place, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been part of your musical lives.
And what a journey it’s been since I arrived in 2021! Together, we’ve achieved incredible growth in our artistic programming. From 667 singers returning to in-person singing in Fall 2021 to nearly 1,900 this past Fall 2024 semester, your dedication and passion have been extraordinary. Our talented team of conductors (now 25 strong!) has led nearly 7,000 hours of rehearsals – both online and in person – across communities nationwide. You’ve performed in over 300 concerts, from community and camp performances to travel tours, creating unforgettable moments in venues like Capital One Hall and the Kennedy Center main hall. With every performance, you’ve shared the profound impact of music and the joy of building community through singing. And you’ve left audiences inspired and uplifted … and wanting to join us on stage!
You should be so proud of all you’ve accomplished these last 3.5 years, and I have no doubt you’ll continue to grow as musicians and thrive as an organization for many years to come!
To ensure a smooth transition, I’ll be working closely with our CEO, Joshua, to appoint an interim Artistic Director for Programming – a role focused on selecting repertoire for the upcoming Summer and Fall 2025 semesters and ensuring that your singing experience remains as enriching as ever.
Additionally, our Assistant Artistic Director, Ethan Lolley, will step into the role of interim Artistic Director for Production. Ethan will oversee rehearsal and performance logistics, ensuring everything runs seamlessly through the Spring and Summer 2025 semesters.
These interim roles will provide stability for Encore as we move forward, giving the leadership team the time to thoughtfully conduct a national search for my permanent successor.
While I may be stepping down from this role, I am honored that Joshua has invited me to remain connected to Encore as a consultant and conductor on a contractual basis. I look forward to continuing to support this incredible organization and staying connected to you all in new ways.
As for my next chapter, I’ll be transitioning to a role as Chief Operating Officer with an international non-profit organization that focuses on creating educational and career opportunities for people living with all types of disabilities – a cause that resonates deeply with me.
Thank you for your trust, energy, and enthusiasm – and most especially, your kindness – over these last several years. Encore’s future is bright because of you!
Please feel free to reach out anytime with questions, thoughts, or just to stay connected.
Sincerely,
Brian Fontaine-Isaac
Artistic Director
Encore Creativity for Older Adults
www.encorecreativity.org
You belong here. Everyone has a place at Encore!