New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation Announces New Chief Executive Officer, Blake-Anthony Johnson

Data News Staff Edited Report

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation (NOJHFF) proudly announces the appointment of Blake-Anthony Johnson as its new Chief Executive Officer. A distinguished leader in music and cultural advocacy, Johnson brings a remarkable breath of experience as a civic leader, professional musician, and arts innovator to New Orleans’ most cherished cultural institution. With roots connecting him to New Orleans, Johnson is set to build on the Foundation’s legacy preserving and celebrating Louisiana’s vibrant cultural heritage while expanding access to the arts and empowering the local community.

As Johnson steps into this role, he is dedicated to honoring New Orleans’ legacy and enriching its future. “I deeply admire the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation for its commitment to preserving the spirit of jazz and celebrating the cultural diversity that makes this city unique. New Orleans holds personal significance for me through my family’s roots, and I am honored to serve an organization that uplifts both the legacy and future of this powerful art form, and the vibrant communities connected to it. This is a place where creativity and culture drive both daily life and economic opportunity. I’m eager to build on the Foundation’s remarkable legacy, working together to further develop programs that inspire, empower, and position our artists and traditions on the global stage, ensuring they thrive for generations to come,” said Blake-Anthony Johnson, NOJHFF Chief Executive Officer.

Previously, Johnson served as President & CEO of the Chicago Sinfonietta, a genre-bending, community-centric powerhouse in the orchestral field known for redefining audience engagement and championing innovation. During his tenure, the Sinfonietta experienced significant growth, tripling its operating budget and expanding community outreach. Johnson spearheaded innovative initiatives such as wellness summits, artist-in-residence programs, and CS360, a symphonic metaverse experience. He also successfully orchestrated the Sinfonietta’s first tour in decades, advancing the orchestra’s mission of promoting community-based programming, placemaking, and social justice through music.

“We are excited to welcome Blake-Anthony as Chief Executive Officer and look forward to working with him and our phenomenal staff to strengthen partnerships, support our culture bearers, and continue to build collaboration to support and perpetuate New Orleans’ and the state’s rich heritage. Blake-Anthony brings intellect, insight, an extraordinary depth of experience, and relationships that will enhance our work and our long-term strategic plan, said Tara Hernandez, Immediate past Board Chair and Chair of the Search Committee.

The Foundation’s Board is confident in Johnson’s unique combination of experience and vision. NOJHFF Board Chair Rachel Cousin stated, “Blake-Anthony Johnson is a visionary leader whose artistic background, accomplishments, and civic engagement align perfectly with the mission of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation.”

As Chief Executive Officer, Johnson’s focus will be on strengthening partnerships, securing sustainable funding, and developing programs that celebrate New Orleans’ heritage while amplifying its impact on the global stage. He will also work closely with Don Marshall, who led the Foundation for two decades, transforming it into an essential resource for local musicians, educators, and cultural institutions.

Don Marshall, who announced his retirement from the Foundation in November 2023, will serve as a valuable resource to Johnson and staff during this transition. Marshall’s NOJHFF tenure is decorated with many accomplishments that have proven to not only be beloved new additions to the institution, but fixtures. Marshall created multiple Music Festivals after Katrina (Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival, Congo Square Rhythms Festival, Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival, Louisiana Cajun Zydeco Festival, Fiesta Latina) to support and promote Louisiana musicians in concert with the Foundation’s mission.