Mike Angell; Founding Director, Paul M. Angell Family Foundation
Friends,
Musicians are familiar with the concept of a double-bar in music notation, indicating the start of a new section in a composition, often with a change of key; and a final double-bar marking a work’s end, often accompanied with the term, fine (Pronounced FEE-nay. Italian for “end”). The Paul M. Angell Family Foundation has clearly reached a double-bar. In its first several years, board members carried out all tasks. The organization is now at a point of greater staffing and more sophisticated organization, and ready to set out on its own. Therefore, after fourteen wonderful, challenging, and fulfilling years, I am stepping down from the foundation. I have worked as hard as possible in every task entrusted to me – operational, fiscal, directorial, but mainly in arts philanthropy. It is time for new leaders to take the baton. My last day will be June 28, 2024.
To that end, a new Director of Performing Arts will be joining the organization at some point this summer. Keep your eyes peeled on the foundation’s web site, where there will be an announcement as soon as a determination is made. Until then, if you have any questions at all, concerns about the Performjng Arts Program, or your relationship with the foundation, please send an email to PerformingArts@pmangellfamfound.org Someone will be glad to help you. I can tell you that the ongoing leadership has indicated its ongoing support of this program, its mission, and funding priorities.
My own transition is not a final double-bar, not a fine. I will be focusing once again on more personal creative projects in music, as well as individual studies in language, literature, fine arts, theater, family travel, and various opportunities to understand Keats’s concept of the unity of truth and beauty.
Rest assured, my fellow artists, that I will never tire in being your supporter and advocate. Anyone who has engaged with me as an individual, group, or field, will always have a friend by email. Indeed, I hope to continue my work, in some structure as yet to be determined, as a convener of arts leaders. Reach out and stay tuned.
I end here with a challenge. Keep pushing forward in your work. Make bold plans, do creative programming, present your work, make a splash – big or small, be honest, and work with others when advisable. Most of all, challenge funders to step up, to be your partners in moving your dreams to reality. (What are dreams for, anyway?) Keep funders honest. Keep them in your circle, informed. Ask them to join you and make clear the expected outcomes of your programs. Also, please remember that; particularly with funders, but really with any situation; getting a “no” doesn’t necessarily mean “never.” If you hit a snag, keep trying. Retrench. Reschedule if you need to. Talk with others. Find your friends, expand your network. Keep working. Too much is riding on it. Our cities, neighborhoods, and citizens need your work, your talent, your creativity, your art.
And if you ever feel overwhelmed, dejected, menospreciado, or just alone, give me a call or shoot me an email. I’m already in your corner…and will be pleased as punch to hear from you.
Peace and Love,
—Mike Angell
