Savannah Music Festival (SMF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Sinisa Ciric as its new Executive Director, effective June 24, 2025. A distinguished violinist, seasoned orchestra leader, and passionate educator, Ciric brings three decades of artistic and executive experience to one of the South’s most celebrated music festivals.
Ciric assumes this role after a 15-year tenure with the Savannah Philharmonic, where he most recently served as General Manager and previously held key artistic and leadership positions including Concertmaster and Director of Artistic Operations. His appointment is strongly supported by the Savannah Philharmonic’s leadership team, reflecting a shared commitment among the city’s leading cultural institutions to strengthen Savannah’s musical landscape through collaboration, innovation, and community impact—and to elevate Savannah’s reputation as a world-class destination for the arts.
“Savannah Music Festival is a cornerstone of our city and region’s cultural life, and I am honored to help lead its next chapter,” said Ciric. “Savannah is home—for me, for my family, and for the community we love. I am fully committed to building on the Festival’s extraordinary legacy while working to deepen its impact, expand access to music education, and welcome even more people into the beauty and energy of live performance.”
A native of Serbia, Ciric has performed internationally as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral leader, and is also recognized for his dedication to mentoring young musicians. He previously led the Strings Conservatory Program at Savannah Classical Academy and served as Artistic Director for the Larsen Spotlight Chamber Music Series. In 2023, he was one of only 36 professionals worldwide selected for the League of American Orchestras’ Essentials of Orchestra Management program in partnership with Juilliard Extension. He is also a 2024 graduate of Leadership Savannah, one of the nation’s longest-running civic leadership programs.
As Executive Director, Ciric will work closely with the SMF Board and staff to advance the Festival’s mission: to be a world-class celebration of the musical arts, creating timeless and adventurous productions that stimulate arts education, foster economic growth, and unite artists and audiences in Savannah.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Sinisa Ciric as the Executive Director of the Savannah Music Festival,” said Mary Dugas, SMF Board Chair. “His leadership and passion for the arts will be invaluable as we continue to present world-class music and enrich our community. We look forward to this exciting new chapter.”
