Music Network Appoints Sharon Rollston as New CEO
The Board of Music Network is delighted to announce the appointment of Sharon Rollston as the new CEO of Music Network. Commenting on the appointment, Peter Finnegan, Chairman of Music Network says, “With over fifteen years of experience working in a range of key arts and cultural organisations, Sharon brings a wealth of skills and qualities to the role of CEO of Music Network. Her appointment comes at an exciting time in the organisation’s development and she willbring a fresh new energy to bear on Music Network’s activities”.
Sharon, who has been Acting CEO of Music Network since August 2011, was formerly Performance Programmes Manager with responsibility for the activities of the touring, once–off and international concert programmes. Sharon also managed artist liaison, artist support schemes and special projects along with building and maintaining relationships with cultural organisations and other stakeholders.
Prior to joining Music Network in 2008, Sharon was Education Programme Manager at The Crafts Council of Ireland and Touring and Outreach Manager at Moving on Music Ltd. Commenting on her appointment, Sharon said, “I’m honoured to be appointed as CEO of Music Network and look forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead. As a priority, I will be developing a new strategic plan for the organisation in consultation with our many stakeholders which will inform our future direction. The artistic programming aspect of the role provides me with a greater opportunity to engage with our network of partners in bringing new and exciting music experiences to audiences across the country.”
Sharon takes over from Deirdre McCrea who was CEO from 2003 to 2012. Under her stewardship the organisation expanded its concert programmes and artist supports significantly. She also advocated tirelessly for the development of a national system of music education which in time attracted €7 million in funding from U2 and The Ireland Funds and resulted in the establishment of Music Network’s subsidiary company, Music Generation. Now in its 26th year, Music Network is a professional arts organisation, funded by The Arts Council, committed to promoting, encouraging and funding the highest standards of music creation and performance throughout Ireland.
