Erik Petersons

A trained violinist and music educator, Erik Petersons has served PCMS and the musical life of our city in many ways over the past 16 years. He has a strong appreciation for the Society's mission, values, and high standards. He was appointed Executive Director in 2026, succeeding PCMS's founding executive director Philip Maneval.

Erik first joined PCMS supporting our marketing and development efforts and later became its first full-time Education and Outreach Director. In that role, he strengthened our community programs, producing more than 50 events each season, including master classes, pre-concert talks, and children’s concerts; led initiatives designed to engage students and young audiences; and launched our popular Social Series at the American Philosophical Society, pairing concerts with socializing that involves local food and beverage tastings. He has also been the driving force behind several of PCMS's most distinctive projects: Departure and Discovery, which explored creativity and meaning in the later stages of life; Emerging Voices, examining personal and national identity through art song; and Root Song, an invitation to discover the ancient wisdom of trees—coming May 29–31.

When the pandemic forced PCMS to suspend concerts in 2020–21, Erik led our initiative to pivot to livestreamed performances from Benjamin Franklin Hall, keeping our artists and audiences connected through an extraordinarily difficult time. He subsequently spearheaded a major capital project—in partnership with the American Philosophical Society—to expand the stage, improve backstage facilities, construct a dedicated livestreaming booth, and upgrade our technical infrastructure, ensuring PCMS is well positioned for the future. As Special Projects Manager and Livestream Producer, he oversaw the team responsible for PCMS’s broadcasts, and he has managed a range of initiatives that extend PCMS’s creative reach and influence.

Across all of these efforts, Erik’s work unites artistic vision, technical execution, and collaborative partnership, and encompasses fundraising, budget management, and audience curation. Erik has also served as chair of the Committee of Music for the Musical Fund Society of Philadelphia. He was Adjunct Professor of Music at Cairn University, has performed in a professional baroque ensemble, and taught music privately. His diverse background includes directing a K–8 music program and running a residential contracting business. A graduate of Wheaton College with a degree in Music Education, Erik brings his artistry, craftsmanship, and community spirit to his home and community, as he and his wife are restoring an 18th Century farmhouse and regularly host barn dances with their three daughters.