By Yolanda F. Johnson

This Women’s History Month, I’m taking the opportunity to spotlight a woman who is moving, shaking, and impacting the world. From ensuring the future of performing artists to helping educate the masses, Melissa Ngan is leading the way and inspiring us all to use our gifts, talents, and skills to take meaningful action in our society.

Melissa Ngan, CEO American Composers Orchestra

Melissa Ngan cultivates personal and organizational growth through creative acts and collaborative practices. She has over fifteen years of experience in civic practice-based program design; arts administration; diversity, equity, and inclusion practices; professional development and entrepreneurship in the arts; and as a professional flutist. Melissa was previously Founder and CEO of the Chicago-based Fifth House Ensemble. Active as a speaker and educator, she serves on the faculties of the Eastman School of Music, DePauw University, and DePaul University, and has presented at Opera America, Chamber Music America, and College Music Society.

Why is Women's History Month important?

I think we all should be keenly aware of who walked ahead of us, who walks alongside us, and who will walk after us. Marking this month as an opportunity to remember the efforts, contributions, and sacrifices of the many women who opened doors and defied expectations so that we can do the same for the next generation is an important annual reminder - and an invitation to make sure we continue to act with the same fearlessness and generosity.

Describe your leadership philosophy or style.

My leadership style is focused on deep listening and curiosity. Visionary leadership is a practice of sitting in the quiet long enough to hear the teacher within, cultivating a team with perspectives and skill sets very different from your own, and constantly asking the right questions of those who most engage with your work. Cultivating consistent dialogue between the insights gathered from those spaces generates the kind of work you wouldn’t have been able to imagine any other way and involves those around you at every step.

What's next for you in 2024?

As President of the American Composers Orchestra, I have the pleasure of making creative dreams come true every day. 2024 brings fresh opportunities to do exactly that. Our EarShot program is a creative accelerator for new American orchestral music encompassing composer readings, residencies, and commissioning opportunities in partnership with orchestras nationwide - all to ensure a vibrant and inclusive future. A highlight of my year is the opportunity to join hands once again with National Black Theatre and the Apollo Theater to bring The Gathering, an evening of healing, liberation, and joy, to the Kennedy Center on June 1.