South Shore Conservatory has welcomed Robert Cinnante of Farmington, Conn,, as president.
The appointment is effective Feb. 1. Cinnante takes over from Interim President Deborah Allinson, who has served in this role since September 2020.
As president, Cinnante intends to ensure the long-term stability and sustainability of SSC by assessing programming and how it is provided to a diverse community of lifelong learners, fostering existing and new community partnerships, and focusing on the engagement and retention of students, thereby further integrating SSC into the fabric of its surrounding communities.
“I am thrilled to be joining SSC as its next president, and am excited to hit the ground running,” said Cinnante. “This organization has stood at the forefront of arts education on the South Shore for more than 50 years, and I am honored to help continue that legacy at this critical juncture, in partnership with SSC’s Board, staff, faculty, and stakeholders.”
Currently the executive director of Waterbury Symphony Orchestra, Cinnante generated significant growth in WSO’s educational program revenue, launched an endowed concerto competition for young artists and re-established the planned giving program bringing in more than $500,000 in new endowment gifts. Cinnante previously worked as the statewide director of education and outreach for the Virginia Opera and as an independent arts management consultant.
Cinnante received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Music in classical vocal performance from New England Conservatory. A tenor, he was also the general manager for Boston’s Music for Food, securing private foundation grants and expanding the organization’s national presence.
