Faculty

Jennifer Kessler is a distinguished leader in the arts, culture, and music education sectors, driven by the belief that a diverse arts ecosystem is vital to a thriving society. In March 2025, she joined CANVAS as Director of Programs, where she leads grantmaking and leadership development in the Jewish arts and culture sector. Previously, as Executive Director of the International Contemporary Ensemble (the Ensemble), she championed equitable representation on global stages; oversaw performances by renowned and emerging artists; secured the Ensemble’s largest Mellon Foundation grant; expanded partnerships with Carnegie Hall, the New York Philharmonic, Darmstadt Music Course, and the Dutch National Opera; and diversified the board, ensemble, and staff.   Jennifer has produced hundreds of performances and high-impact arts education programs through leadership roles with Willie Mae Rock Camp; Orchestra of St. Luke’s, where she launched a thriving intensive youth orchestra; and Carnegie Hall, where she led professional development workshops with artists such as Yo-Yo Ma, Kronos Quartet, and the late Zakir Hussain. As a consultant, she has supported the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, and organizations across jazz, dance, visual art, and theater.   A committed champion of arts leadership, Jennifer has designed and led more than 50 professional development programs, including the League of American Orchestras’ Essentials of Orchestra Management seminar and courses at the New School’s College of Performing Arts. Her recent research on philanthropy and accessibility in the arts was published in the January 2025 I Care If You Listen.   Jennifer began her career as a French horn player, performing with ensembles including the Berlin Philharmonic and with jazz saxophonist Miguel Zenón. She holds degrees from Northwestern University and the Hanns Eisler Musikhochschule, and a graduate certificate from the El Sistema Fellows program at New England Conservatory. She is also a certified yoga instructor, devoted mother, jazz enthusiast, and occasional electropop musician. Photo credit Mariana Meraz