Plymouth Philharmonic OrchestraMeet the Executive Director

Kara E. McEachern

Executive Director, Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra

Kara E. McEachern is a dedicated arts administrator and musician with a lifelong passion for the performing arts. Originally from New Bedford, MA, she now resides in Lakeville, MA, with her husband, Michael, and their two daughters, Molly and Genevieve.

Kara serves as the Executive Director of the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra, leading the organization’s operations, including concert production, fundraising, audience engagement, and strategic planning. She first joined the Phil in 2017 as Office Manager and later served as Director of Operations, working closely with longtime Executive Director Kim Corben, whose mentorship helped shape Kara’s leadership and deepened her commitment to the Phil’s mission. Through Kim’s guidance, Kara gained invaluable experience in arts administration, donor relations, and strategic planning, preparing her to take the helm and continue the orchestra’s legacy of excellence.

In addition to her leadership at the Phil, Kara is the Music Director at St. Francis of Assisi Church in New Bedford, where she selects music for services, leads the choir, and serves as a cantor for Masses, funerals, and weddings. Her role enhances the parish’s worship experience by inspiring the congregation through sacred music.

Trained in voice, Kara studied under Debra Perry and Dora Ohrenstein and earned her B.A. in Arts Administration from Wagner College. While at Wagner, she interned with the John Lennon Songwriting Contest and Educational Tour Bus and served as Tour Manager for the Wagner College Choir. She has performed at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall, along with Fenway Park and TD Garden, where she has sung the national anthem for the Boston Bruins and Red Sox.

Beyond her professional career, Kara has been deeply involved in the local arts community. She was a longtime member and former President of the Southeastern Massachusetts Festival Chorus and has held various leadership roles in arts and educational organizations.

Kara believes that the success of the arts sector depends not only on talent but also on strong management and advocacy. She is deeply grateful for the love and support of her family, friends, and mentors for shaping her journey and inspiring her dedication to the arts.