Dr. James Gandre, an educator and musician with a deep commitment to students and the development of American conservatory learning, returned to Manhattan School of Music to assume the presidency in May 2013. He had previously served the School for fifteen years. In 2000, Gandre became Dean of Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University, where he ultimately went on to serve as the University’s Provost and Executive Vice President. As a performer, Gandre has appeared as a tenor soloist with the Cleveland Orchestra, London Classical Players, Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, and members of the San Francisco Symphony. His professional choral engagements include more than 175 performances. He is currently a member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (GRAMMYS) and the Recommendation Board of the Avery Fisher Artist Program and holds degrees from Lawrence University, the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, and the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.