PSO Leadership

Brian C. Little, Sr. is an accomplished arts manager based in Richmond, Virginia, renowned for his innovative leadership and commitment to community engagement within the cultural sector. With extensive experience in enhancing organizational visibility and audience interaction, Brian is dedicated to fostering inclusive, trauma-informed policies and practices that enrich the arts experience for diverse communities.

 As the Executive Director of the Petersburg Symphony Orchestra, Brian leads a vibrant team of more than 50 people , driving the organization’s new mission to connect music with people of all backgrounds. Under his guidance, the orchestra has significantly expanded its community outreach and philanthropic efforts, successfully attracting new audiences and is revitalizing interest in the arts. Brian balances operational management with a deep passion for artistic excellence, ensuring a sustainable governance structure that respects budgetary constraints while nurturing creative expression.

 In his previous role with the Virginia Department of Health, Brian honed his skills in public relations and strategic communication, passionately promoting arts-based health initiatives and community wellness through innovative programming. His expertise in public information and budget planning has been instrumental in managing campaigns that resonate with a wide range of audiences, including initiatives that integrate the arts into public health messaging.

 Brian’s earlier role also showcased his capability to lead significant community-focused projects, including a major marketing task force dedicated to COVID-19 awareness that creatively integrated the arts into public education. His reputation as a collaborative team player is rooted in his ability to cultivate impactful partnerships, drive strong public relations strategies, and create engaging marketing campaigns that highlight the transformative power of the arts.

 With a track record of driving positive change through strategic communications, Brian continues to thrive in environments that challenge him to thoughtfully and responsively engage with communities, ensuring that the arts remain a vital part of public life.”