This spring, Shaler Area High School alumna Monica Meyer Beale (class of 2003) was appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer for the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra (PSO). Meyer Beale, who holds a BA in music and an MBA, has long united music and financial leadership. She previously served as Vice President of Advancement for the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, and the Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer for the Virginia Symphony Orchestra. She reflects, “My love for music was the constant melody, but the administrative side, the ‘behind-the-scenes’ magic, really captured my imagination. Seeing how organizations like the PSO connected artists and audiences, built communities, and preserved cultural treasures – that’s where I found my calling. Plus, my mom’s career at the PSO was a huge influence. I saw firsthand how rewarding it could be to support the arts.”
Meyer Beale follows in her mother’s footsteps as a PSO employee, part of a rich legacy of arts in her family. She explains, “My family’s connection to the PSO runs deep, almost like a musical thread woven through our lives. My mother’s career, starting in 1971 when Heinz Hall opened, significantly shaped my own path. She progressed from accounting to the development department, providing me with an early glimpse into the world of arts administration. Her last day at the PSO was the day I was born. Growing up, PSO concerts were a staple, fueling my passion for music. Their unwavering support has been a constant, and they share my enthusiasm for my return.”
Many of the professional and interpersonal skills that are integral to her job were developed while a student in the Shaler Area School District. Meyer Beale recalls, “Looking back, my time at Shaler Area was a whirlwind of activity, and I wouldn’t have it any other way! Being deeply involved in chorus, band, musicals, and as a majorette taught me invaluable lessons about discipline, time management, and the power of collaboration. Balancing rehearsals, performances, and academic work instilled a strong work ethic that has served me incredibly well. It wasn’t just about academics; it was about teamwork, perseverance, and building connections within those diverse groups. Those foundational skills have been invaluable in my career. Plus, I think the diverse experiences I had at Shaler helped me appreciate the importance of different perspectives, and the value of being part of a team, which is crucial in my line of work.”
She encourages students to embrace the varied opportunities that high school offers. “Be curious! Don’t be afraid to explore different interests and try new things. You never know where your passions might lead you. Also, build strong relationships. The connections you make in high school can last a lifetime. And most importantly, embrace the journey. It’s not always a straight line, but every experience will teach you something valuable.”
