ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Annapolis Symphony Orchestra (ASO), Anne Arundel County’s oldest and largest nonprofit arts organization, has appointed Katie Edwards, MD, as Chair of its Board of Trustees, effective June 24, 2026. A pediatrician, lifelong music enthusiast, and longtime ASO supporter, Dr. Edwards succeeds Shelley Row, whose tenure strengthened the organization’s capacity and elevated both the ASO and its Annapolis Symphony Academy. Dr. Edwards brings professional leadership experience and a personal connection to the Symphony, being the daughter-in-law of its first Executive Director, Patricia “Pat” Edwards.
Dr. Edwards, a partner at Annapolis Pediatrics with six offices in Anne Arundel County and Kent Island, has deep ties to the ASO. She and her husband, Jib Edwards, established the Patricia A. Edwards Chair, endowing the Executive Director position, and the Patricia Edwards Scholarship, supporting Annapolis Symphony Academy students. A 25-year ASO subscriber, Dr. Edwards met her husband through a family connected to her practice, with their first date including ASO performance tickets arranged by Pat Edwards. They married in 1999 and reside in Annapolis’ Wardour neighborhood.
“I am truly delighted to welcome Katie Edwards as the new Chair of the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Board of Trustees,” said Artistic Director and Conductor José-Luis Novo. “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and working closely with the Edwards family since conducting my very first ASO concert as a music director candidate. Over the years, their steadfast support and dedication to the Symphony have meant a great deal to me personally and to our entire organization. With Katie stepping into this leadership role, she continues an exceptional legacy of service and commitment to the ASO and to our wonderful community for which I am deeply grateful.”
ASO Executive Director Erica Bondarev Rapach praised Dr. Edwards’ dedication. “Katie has a remarkable commitment to classical music. Each season she prepares a Spotify playlist of the pieces that are going to be performed during the upcoming season and dedicates time and attention to listening to and learning about them so she is ready for each concert. That kind of personal investment speaks volumes about her leadership—Katie leads not just with strategy, but with heart, modeling the curiosity and care we hope to inspire in every member of our audience,” Rapach said.
Dr. Edwards’ musical journey began with childhood piano and violin lessons, followed by musical theater in high school and a cappella singing at Yale University. At New York University, she co-founded The Muscle Tones, a medical student a cappella group, and later sang with the Baltimore Choral Arts Society during her residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital. A mother of four, she resumed piano lessons alongside her children and continues weekly instruction with award-winning teacher Cecilia Wyatt.
“Classical music has always been a source of inspiration and grounding for me,” said Dr. Edwards. “Each season, I’m reminded that music has the power to connect people across generations, backgrounds, and beliefs. As Chair of the Board, I’m committed to helping the ASO deepen that connection—by strengthening our donor base, broadening access to concerts, and supporting the extraordinary work of our musicians, staff, and students.”
As Board Chair, Dr. Edwards will guide the ASO’s strategic priorities, including boosting single ticket sales, expanding corporate and individual philanthropy, and increasing access to performances at venues like Maryland Hall, the Music Center at Strathmore, Bowie State University, Severna Park High School, and local parks. She is particularly passionate about the Annapolis Symphony Academy, which provides music education to students. “The Academy is building the symphonic audience of the future while helping students develop skills that go far beyond music—like resilience, collaboration, and creativity,” said Dr. Edwards. “Children understand from an early age that music is powerful. My goal as Board Chair is to help bring more people into that shared understanding—so that every child, every family, every listener knows the Symphony belongs to them.”
The ASO, founded in 1962, serves as a cultural cornerstone in Anne Arundel County, offering performances, educational programs, and community outreach. Dr. Edwards’ leadership will build on this legacy, leveraging her experience on the ASO and Key School boards to drive sustainability and growth. Her focus on accessibility aligns with the ASO’s mission to make classical music inclusive, with initiatives like free outdoor concerts and student scholarships.
Dr. Edwards’ appointment marks a new chapter for the ASO as it navigates post-pandemic recovery and seeks to expand its regional presence. The organization’s diverse performance venues reflect its commitment to reaching broader audiences, from urban centers to suburban communities. For more information about the ASO and its programs, visit https://www.annapolissymphony.org.
