LA Phil Appoints Mitch Bassion as New Chief Philanthropy Officer
Bassion Brings Extensive Experience in Arts Fundraising to Lead Strategic Philanthropic Efforts
The Los Angeles Philharmonic Association announced the appointment of Mitch Bassion as Chief Philanthropy Officer, effective February 17, 2025. Bassion succeeds Margie Kim, who retired after five successful years leading the LA Phil’s philanthropic efforts.
“Mitch brings the LA Phil a wealth of experience and proven success from working with some of the most accomplished and celebrated cultural institutions in the country,” said Kim Noltemy, David C. Bohnett Chief Executive Officer of the LA Phil. “He has especially flourished during moments of institutional transition, as when he helped lead the complex merger of an elite symphony orchestra with one of the largest performing arts centers in the nation. With his innovative and fearless approach, I have full confidence that he will succeed in the thriving cultural epicenter of Los Angeles, which he knows well and where he has deep roots. We are excited to welcome Mitch back to LA and know he will be a brilliant addition to our executive team.”
As Chief Philanthropy Officer, Bassion will play a pivotal role in shaping the LA Phil’s future by developing and implementing strategies to generate and maximize philanthropic support. He will lead a team of dedicated professionals responsible for cultivating relationships with donors, securing major gifts, and overseeing the organization’s fundraising campaigns.
Bassion’s appointment comes at an exciting time for the LA Phil. Under Noltemy’s leadership and the visionary direction of Music and Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel, the LA Phil continues to push boundaries, embrace innovation, and engage audiences through world-class performances and community outreach initiatives.
“As a frequent patron of the LA Phil during the years I lived in Los Angeles, I am delighted to have the opportunity to return to this vibrant city that I love and join the LA Phil at this exciting moment in its history. I have longstanding respect for the LA Phil’s artistry, the care and dedication the organization demonstrates to its communities, and its passionate drive to raise the bar in our industry. I look forward to collaborating with Kim Noltemy, Gustavo Dudamel, the Board of Directors, and all the dedicated teams that work so tirelessly to make the LA Phil one of the world’s leaders in the performing arts,” said Bassion.
With over 15 years of experience in the cultural sector, Bassion brings a deep understanding of the philanthropic landscape. Prior to his tenure at The Philadelphia Orchestra and Kimmel Center, where he served as the inaugural Chief Philanthropy Officer since 2021, he held senior positions at leading cultural institutions, including Washington Performing Arts, Los Angeles Conservancy, Los Angeles Opera, Seattle Opera, and Lyric Opera of Chicago.
During his tenure at The Philadelphia Orchestra and Kimmel Center, Bassion led a department of 28 staff members. Since his appointment and working collaboratively with staff, board, volunteers, and musicians, the organization has raised over $220 million providing crucial support for their artistic programming, community engagement initiatives, and vital operational needs.
Bassion’s appointment marks a significant step for the LA Phil as they continue to build on their legacy of excellence and embrace the future of orchestral music.
