Eugene Watanabe Appointed As New Executive Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For media inquiries, please contact:

Anna Maxwell
Executive Assistant
Gifted Music School
amaxwell@giftedmusicschool.org

CO-FOUNDER EUGENE WATANABE APPOINTED AS NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR GIFTED MUSIC SCHOOL

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Sep. 27, 2023 – The Board of Directors of the Gifted Music School is pleased to announce the unanimous appointment of Eugene Watanabe as the Executive Director of the Gifted Music School (GMS). Recognized nationally as one of the top music educators in the United States, Eugene, a co-founder and the current violin faculty member of GMS, is poised to usher in a new era of prestige for the school with his esteemed leadership.

Upon his appointment, Watanabe expressed his enthusiasm, “I am honored to build upon the solid foundation laid down by Justin Morgan, the Interim Executive Director, and the committed team at GMS. Over the past 15 years, GMS has nurtured numerous top young musicians and has etched its name as one of the preeminent pre-college music schools in the country. Our outreach to Title I schools in Salt Lake City has been a testament to the transformative power of music education. As we move forward, our vision remains clear: to broaden our reach and provide access to premium music education to the vibrant communities across our great state. I am dedicated to working hand-in-hand with our phenomenal staff, teachers, and supporters on this significant journey.”

"I'm thrilled to see the succession of the school pass into such capable hands," said Justin Morgan who has held the position of Interim Executive Director until this month. "As a co-founder, beloved member of the faculty, and someone who has held the Executive Director role previously, Eugene is well-positioned to succeed in the school. All of the staff and I are behind Eugene and I'm looking forward to supporting him and the school through this exciting transition."

Since its inception in 2008, the Gifted Music School, a 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation based in Salt Lake City, has been at the forefront of providing unparalleled music education. Currently serving over 475 students, GMS continues to carve a comprehensive pathway to world-class music education for its student body.

About Eugene Watanabe:

Together with Dr. Vera Watanabe, Eugene founded the Gifted Music School and has since then devoted his efforts to create a nurturing environment for young musicians. His acclaim as a violin pedagogue is well recognized nationally, with significant support from the Dorothy Starling Foundation. Eugene’s exemplary track record includes his students embarking on significant international performing careers and clinching top awards at prestigious competitions. An esteemed performer on both piano and violin, Eugene has graced numerous stages across Europe, Canada, and the United States, leaving indelible marks of excellence wherever he performs.

His appointment as Executive Director is a testament to his unwavering commitment to music education and an emblem of the promising future awaiting the Gifted Music School under his visionary leadership.

About Gifted Music School:

Established in 2008, Gifted Music School is a 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation committed to providing the highest level of music education. Based in Salt Lake City, the school provides a comprehensive pathway to world-class music education, serving over 475 students with an expansive curriculum and distinguished faculty. The Gifted Music School stands as a beacon of musical excellence and education, shaping the young musicians of tomorrow. Visit www.giftedmusicschool.org for more information.