Welcome Savannah Deal, who joins us with a background in Performing Arts Administration and Production Management, working for companies like the Barrington Stage Company, McCarter Theatre Center, Artomé, and Catawba College. She is a lover of music (especially live), sailing, games, cats, and more.

Since joining JazzArts Charlotte in May, Savannah’s enthusiasm has been infectious, as she has jumped straight in with Jazz at Victoria Yards, JazzArts Summer Camp and many other ongoing activities and exciting planning.

Here’s what Savannah wants you to know about her:

What led you to JazzArts Charlotte?

I grew up in North Carolina, and the city of Charlotte has always been close to me. I worked with several companies even before graduating from Davidson College, doing both Administrative and Production Management.

JazzArts Charlotte seems like a perfect fit for my goals. Lonnie and Ocie are amazing entrepreneurs, the way they’ve built this company over the last decade in Charlotte.  I am excited to get the opportunity to work with and learn from them.

How would you describe yourself and your approach?

I am a bit of a go-getter. I try to keep a lot of balls moving and predict where each might land, so everyone in the organization has the tools to be efficient and successful. When I go about my work, I’m trying to assist in the best way I can.

What do you bring to the organization?

I bring an array of institutional knowledge of arts organizations of varying sizes, and tailor those experiences to the needs of JazzArts Charlotte, to help it grow into the future. I’m enthusiastic and passionate about fulfilling our goals.

What do you look forward to in this role?

I’ve had such a great time. The team-work that goes into making our operation successful is a fantastic environment, and I’ve loved being a part of that collaboration.

Also, this job has given me an opportunity to engage with the city in new ways. I look forward to getting to know the Charlotte arts community better, continuing to make connections with our JazzArts community and discover where we fit into the Charlotte scene.

Is there any particular music or musicians that have impacted you?

I’m a long-time music lover, but new to jazz. My long-time musical interest has strong foundations in jazz, and it’s cool to go back to the source. Pop, rock, americana, folk, etc., are loves of mine. Janelle Monet, Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones, are a just a few of the people who have impacted me.

I’m learning about the jazz greats, what they’ve contributed, and about the art of jazz.  John Coltrane’s music is a recent love of mine. I’m listening to more Dizzy Gillespie: he’s amazing! Being in this position is fun. So far, I like the styles of bebop, bossa-nova, and Latin jazz.

One last thing she wants you to know…

I’m excited to get to know our fans and patrons, so don’t be shy. Please come and say hello at our next event!