Chad Henderson Moves to SC Philharmonic

PRESS RELEASE

SOUTH CAROLINA PHILHARMONIC

Chad Henderson

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Philharmonic welcomes Chad Henderson as the new Marketing and Communications Director. The position, recently held by Kristin Morris, will be filled by the recent Executive Director of Trustus Theatre who resigned from Trustus on July 29, 2021. SC Philharmonic Executive Director Rhonda Hunsinger announced the hiring of Henderson on August 9, 2021, and Henderson’s first day with the SC Philharmonic will be August 16, 2021. 

Henderson, a native of Spartanburg, SC, came to Columbia in 2003 as a student of the South Carolina Honors College. He started his studies at the university as an aspiring professional percussionist at the school of music with a minor in advertising. He later transitioned to a major in advertising and a minor in theatre. Henderson served as Trustus Theatre’s Marketing Director for eight years starting in 2007, was Artistic Director for 5 years, and the organization’s Executive Director throughout the past year - which included the theatre’s closure due to the pandemic and its return to live performance. With 14 years of experience promoting nonprofit arts programming in Columbia, Henderson is excited to join the SC Philharmonic team as they launch their 2021/2022 concert season with live and virtual performances.  

South Carolina Philharmonic Executive Director Rhonda Hunsinger expressed her excitement to welcome Henderson to the team after receiving his application for the position earlier in July 2021. “I have known Chad since his early days at Trustus and have always admired his creative drive and commitment to the arts in Columbia,” said Hunsinger. “As colleagues we have often turned to each other for guidance, and I am delighted that we can now work together to advance the mission of the South Carolina Philharmonic!” 

Henderson’s passion for music, experience in promoting events in Columbia, and his desire to work for an established team of professionals makes him a winning fit for the Marketing and Communications Director position at the South Carolina Philharmonic. “I am a longtime fan of the South Carolina Philharmonic and its programming, and am thrilled to have the opportunity to join their team,” said Henderson. “The leadership at the South Carolina Philharmonic has an amazing track record and tenure, and the Board of Directors has been exemplary in it support of the staff and moving the organization forward. I had the pleasure of talking with various members of the Philharmonic’s artistic family over the past few weeks, and I am so delighted to be able to work for this amazing arts organization.” Henderson intimated that he considered applying for the position when it became available in 2018, but is so grateful to have the Opportunity in 2021.

 SC Philharmonic Mission: The South Carolina Philharmonic is committed to performing live symphonic music and providing dynamic educational opportunities in the Midlands. We carry forward a legacy of passion for the music and embrace our responsibility to be a vibrant part of the cultural fabric of our diverse community.

Music at the Rosewood Arts Festival by Annie Brooks

The Rosewood Arts Festival is a day of family friendly fun centered around the celebration of music and art. Hosted by Rockaway’s Athletic Club, the festival is in its fourth consecutive year. From 10 am to 6 pm there will be two stages featuring music from various genres. This year has gathered Chase Asmer, Dreher High School Chorale, Tom Hall and the Plowboys, the SC Philharmonic Orchestra Musicians, and the Tonya Tyner Trio. There will be something for every ear to enjoy.

Of the musical talents he has brought together to perform at the festival, creator Arik Bjorn said, “I know one thing, and that’s that this is the best group of Columbia musicians and entertainers you’re going to find in a single place on a single day this year.”

The various musical groups participating are just as passionate about the event.

The SC Philharmonic has been a returning presence to the festival. This year they will be represented by two small ensembles on either stage; a string quartet and a wind duo. Executive director Rhonda Hunsinger said, “We are excited that the SC Philharmonic has been a part of the Rosewood Arts Festival since its inception. The festival has done a wonderful job of making sure a wide variety of musical genres is represented, from contemporary to classical. The Festival gives the SC Phil a great opportunity to share classical music with the public, and introduce it to those who may not have ever attended an SC Phil performance.”

This will be the second year that Tonya Tyner has played with a group for the festival. She is proud to be a returning artist to a festival that brings so many different components of the arts community together. Thrilled with the group she has joining her, Tonya will play guitar, along with Brodie Porterfield, and L.J. Errante on the mandolin. All of their songs are original and offer a folky bluegrass vibe. Tonya also offered that the festival is a great way to meet the artists and discuss their art.

It is not often that one is given access to such rich talent for no cost of admission. The Rosewood Arts festival is a wonderful opportunity to be submersed in local art and music. There will be entertainment all day with crafts, face painting, and good food as well. It is a free event cohosted by Rockaways Athletic Club and the Trenholm Artist Guild, held at Rockaways (2719 Rosewood Drive) on September 20^th from 10 am to 6 pm.