Sonia Tower Takes the Helm as Interim Executive Director of Ventura Music Festival

Ventura Music Festival Welcomes Sonia Tower as Interim Executive Director

The Ventura Music Festival has taken a significant step in its leadership by appointing Sonia Tower as the Interim Executive Director. This announcement, made on March 6, 2026, showcases the festival's commitment to continuity and excellence in its operations, especially during this transitional period.

Sonia Tower is no stranger to the arts community. Previously, she served as the Director of Strategic Communications and Public Affairs at the National Endowment for the Arts, a position to which she was appointed by President Biden. Her tenure at the NEA lasted until January 2025, where she was deeply involved in promoting the arts on a national scale. Additionally, she played a pivotal role in relaunching the President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities, collaborating with cultural icons such as Co-Chair Lady Gaga and First Lady Jill Biden.

With a rich history tied to the Ventura Music Festival, Tower's connection to the festival dates back to her time as the Cultural Affairs Manager for the City of Ventura. She was instrumental in developing and launching the Ventura Music Festival, which has since become a hallmark of cultural significance in the city. Her experience overseeing the festival during its formative years equips her with unique insights into its core values and mission.

Richard Reisman, a Board Member of the Ventura Music Festival, expressed his confidence in Tower's abilities: "We feel so fortunate to have such a highly qualified individual willing to step in and shepherd the Festival during this time of transition." This sentiment reflects the excitement within the organization as it prepares for upcoming events.

In her own words, Tower emphasized her pride in serving as Interim Executive Director, stating, "The Ventura Music Festival is a valuable cultural asset which has been providing Ventura residents and visitors with superlative musical performances for thirty years." Her commitment to working alongside the dedicated Board, staff, and volunteers underscores her enthusiasm for maintaining the festival's reputation for excellence in music and arts education.

As Tower prepares to lead the organization into the summer season, the Ventura Music Festival aims to uphold its tradition of delivering world-class performances and enriching community programs. Each year, thousands gather in Ventura for the festival, which not only entertains but also actively engages the community with educational programs and free events designed to expand access to the arts.

The Ventura Music Festival, with its rich history and commitment to artistic excellence, looks forward to an exciting season ahead under Sonia Tower's leadership, ensuring that it remains a defining cultural event for years to come. For further details about the festival's upcoming events and initiatives, visit venturamusicfestival.org.