Christopher Peacock named next Executive Director of Orcas Island Chamber Music Festival

||| FROM MARY TAYLOR for ORCAS ISLAND CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL |||

The Orcas Island Chamber Music Festival (OICMF) is delighted to announce the appointment of Christopher Peacock as its next Executive Director. Peacock will step into the role following the retirement of Anita Orne, who will conclude her tenure in December 2025, after serving the Festival with distinction for a decade.

A well-known figure in the Orcas Island arts and hospitality community, Peacock has spent years captivating audiences as the resident pianist at Rosario Resort, where his performances in the historic Moran Mansion Music Room drew standing-room-only crowds. His music, inspired by the natural beauty of the San Juan Islands, has been widely praised and featured in esteemed venues such as Disney, NBC’s Olympics coverage, Ritz-Carlton Hotels, and SeaWorld.

Peacock brings a wealth of experience not only as a performer but also as a leader in business and community initiatives. His tenure as General Manager and Marketing Director of Rosario Resort & Spa saw him spearhead major projects, including the Rosario Resort Master Plan. Additionally, he has served as President of the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce and contributed as a board member of the Orcas Island Community Foundation and the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau.

“Christopher’s deep-rooted connection to the island, along with his artistic excellence and leadership experience, makes him the perfect person to guide the Orcas Island Chamber Music Festival into its next chapter,” said Aloysia Friedmann, Founder and Artistic Director of OICMF. “His passion for music and community will be invaluable as we continue to bring world-class chamber music to the San Juan Islands.”

Peacock’s career in music spans decades, beginning with his background as a percussionist in Madison, Wisconsin. He performed with prestigious ensembles such as the Madison Symphony Orchestra, University of Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra, and the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra. He later studied under prominent musicians, including William Kraft, timpanist and composer-in-residence of the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

“I am honored to join the Orcas Island Chamber Music Festival and to build upon the incredible legacy established by Anita Orne,” said Peacock. “This Festival is a cultural treasure, and I am eager to contribute to its continued success, fostering its role as a beacon of artistic excellence in the Pacific Northwest.”

Under Peacock’s leadership, OICMF looks forward to expanding its reach, enhancing its programming, and continuing to provide exceptional musical experiences to audiences near and far. Peacock will be working alongside Anita throughout 2025. Peacock’s wife, Jaylin, is another longtime islander. She and Christopher work in real estate through The Agency in Seattle. They have three children.

For more information about the Orcas Island Chamber Music Festival and upcoming events, visit www.oicmf.org.