Jennifer Spiering

MANITOWOC, WI, April 13, 2026 – The Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is pleased to announce that Jennifer Spiering has accepted the position of Executive Director of the Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra. Jennifer is a native of Manitowoc, and her strong local roots, coupled with her professional experience in music, education, and nonprofit administration, position her well to lead the MSO into its next chapter. 
 
The MSO Board and Search Committee were impressed by Jennifer’s combination of artistic grounding, administrative capability, relationship-building skills, and genuine commitment to community arts. Jennifer steps into the leadership role as current Executive Director, Peggy Pitz, transitions into retirement. While Jennifer’s official start date is yet to be determined, between now and Peggy’s retirement, Jennifer will be shadowing Peggy and begin onboarding activities. This transition period will allow for continuity, knowledge transfer, and a smooth leadership handoff.  
 
“I am excited to join the Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra and be part of an organization that brings incredible music to our community, stated Jennifer Spiering. “I look forward to supporting the orchestra’s work and helping continue to grow meaningful musical experiences for audiences across the region.” 

Jennifer holds a Master of Arts in Psychology of Music from the University of Sheffield (UK) and a Bachelor of Arts in Music Industry and French from Valparaiso University, with additional study abroad experience through Boston University in Paris, France. Most recently, Jennifer has served as an Elementary Music Teacher with Manitowoc Public Schools. Prior to returning to the Manitowoc community, Jennifer worked with Arizona Musicfest, where she held roles as Development & Donor Relations Coordinator and Development & Patron Services Associate. Jennifer also brings organizational and people-management experience from her work in human resources. Her earlier experience includes roles in event coordination, arts administration, and community programming, international arts organizations, and music education programs serving youth and families. 

“Since returning to Manitowoc in 1999, it has been an honor and privilege to serve the Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra as a board member, board president, and, since 2014, as Executive Director,” stated Peggy Pitz. “I am so grateful to our board members, music director Dylan Chmura-Moore, our musicians, and our patrons for their steadfast support and commitment, and I am pleased to welcome our new Executive Director, Jennifer Spierling, and wish her every success as she builds on this strong foundation.” 
 
“We are delighted to welcome Jennifer Spiering into the MSO family and are deeply grateful to Peggy Pitz for 27 years of leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra,” stated Mark Maurer, President, MSO Board of Directors.  
 
ABOUT MSO: Manitowoc, Wisconsin is one of the smallest cities to have its own symphony orchestra. The mission of the Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra Association is to promote the highest quality orchestral music experiences available to patrons and musicians. Music’s true power is to move and unite people.