Music Ed or Performance?
Sound familiar?
Those were the the only two career options I was given as an 18 year old who only saw music in her future as a career.
I want to share my story about how I tried both, and ended pursuing neither.
5 years ago
I started to self reflect on the following:
1) What I really wanted to do for the rest of my life?
2) Did I want to pursue the "freelance lifestyle" that my performance degree prepared me for?
3) What is the impact I wanted to make in this industry?
along came the answers:
1) I want to have a job in the arts in some capacity.
2) No, I did not want to spend all of my time worrying about the inconsistent income of private teaching, and soul sucking experience of taking orchestral auditions to maybe win a job that will pay me $30,000 a year.
3) I want to change something in our the arts industry. I want to make sure our artform continues and it is available for future generations.
And the Solution:
Arts Administration
This career pivot has opened many doors and opportunities to have a vibrant, fulfilling, stable, and impactful career.
I want to help you find a career in our growing field that will bring you the same joy that working in this field brings me everyday.
I am determined to help you every step of the way.
Hey y'all, it's Mily
Mily Harrod (she/her/ella) is an active arts administrator, flutist, and a arts equity advocate. She received the M.A. in Arts Leadership and Management and the M.M. in Flute Performance from Wichita State University and the B.M. in Flute Performance from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Mily is excited to serve as the Membership Manager for the National Flute Association where she is ensuring a positive member experience and building a strategic vision for the future of the organization and its stakeholders. She joined the NFA from her previous position as the Annual Fund Coordinator for the Omaha Symphony Orchestra where she helped the development team secure 2 million dollars in annual fund gifts each year.
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Prior to joining the NFA staff, Mily was a proud volunteer for the organization, serving on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee, where she co-founded the Young Artist Mentorship Program, which serves underrepresented up and coming flutists with mentorship opportunities to grow their professional portfolio. Additionally, she has served on the staff, committees, and board of directors for a variety of other arts non-profits. Educating the future generation about what a career in arts administration looks like is Mily's greatest passion.
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Mily currently resides in Omaha, Nebraska with her husband, Dr. Tanner Harrod. They enjoy attending concerts, musicals, and are always planning their next trip.
Photo by M3 Mitchell Media
a little more personal
I serve as Xi A Province Officer for Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity.
Roses and Pearls!
I am both a citizen of the United States and Peru!
If you ever want to go to a concert, I am there. I have had the privilege to see both queens: Beyoncé and Taylor Swift live!
My husband and I are really into Drum Corp International and follow the summer season.
We have spreadsheets! iykyk.
Here is a pic during my summer internship at DCI.
Musical Theater is my prefered choice of entertainment. My favorite musicals being Hamilton and Into the Woods.
