New Director for Santa Cruz Symphony

James de Leon Head Of Marketing and Communications

SANTA CRUZ — Santa Cruz Symphony Executive Director, Dorothy Wise, announced that James “JD” de Leon has been hired as the organization’s Director of Marketing and Communications.

“We are thrilled JD is joining our team,” states Dorothy Wise. “He has had a long, successful career in Santa Cruz and brings a wealth of experience and marketing knowledge to the Santa Cruz Symphony. I’m eager to see how his fresh perspective will positively impact the Symphony in the coming year.”

James comes from a family of musicians and visual artists and began his career at the age of 17 as an illustrator creating the art for book covers, movie posters, magazines and editorials. At 19 he purchased his first home on Pleasure Point in Santa Cruz, pursuing his passion for surfing, music and painting. He spent the next 20 years at O’Neill as Creative Director and Senior Product Designer and will always be grateful for the opportunity provided by Jack and the O’Neill family.

“We are thrilled to have JD become a member of our Symphony family. He is a delight to work with and will be a great addition to our administrative team,” states Music Director, Daniel Stewart.

In 2001, James founded his own full service agency, 57design, where he’s had the pleasure of mentoring young designers and fanning the flames of their creativity. His clients include Surftech, Dell, Nike, Harley-Davidson, Semicon, Atari, Sony, Crossfit and Brylise Tahitian Pearls. Now, he is excited to bring his love of music along with a fresh approach to marketing and community outreach to the Santa Cruz Symphony.

“It’s a dream opportunity to collaborate with the incredibly talented and dedicated team at the Santa Cruz Symphony,” states de Leon. “Growing up in a musical family was something I treasure — my parents even met when my dad was the musical director and cast my mom as the lead in Madame Butterfly. So, working with the Santa Cruz Symphony feels like home, and I’m looking forward to the fabulous 2016-2017 Season which promises to be the best in its 59 year history!”

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Founded in 1958, the Santa Cruz Symphony’s mission is to inspire, educate and engage through artistic excellence, distinctive musical performances, and varied activities that celebrate and enhance cultural vibrancy. With Maestro Daniel Stewart as Music Director since 2013, the Symphony partners regularly with regional and international guest artists in both traditional and modern concerts. Visit santacruzsymphony.org for more information.