Ben Hartley appointed executive director of Silkroad

Touring ensemble and social impact organization Silkroad has announced the appointment of Ben Hartley to the role of executive director. Effective from 15 May, Hartley will succeed Kathy Fletcher, who stepped down from the post in December 2022 to lead Massachusetts’ Wellfleet Preservation Hall.

Hartley took part in an international search process involving more than 400 applicants for the role which will see him work closely with both artistic director Rhiannon Giddens and Fletcher, who has retained the role of senior advisor with Silkroad. In his new position Hartley will support Silkroad’s social impact initiatives and educational outreach events as well as its Grammy award-winning Silkroad Ensemble.

Giddens said: ‘A long-time supporter of the Ensemble, [Hartley] embodies the ethos of everything we represent. From his ability to build artistic aligned relationships to his experience in strategic planning, I look forward to seeing what new paths can be forged for Silkroad with Ben at the helm.’

Created by cellist Yo-Yo Ma in 1998, Silkroad aims to facilitate ‘the exchange of ideas, tradition, and innovation across borders’. In his new role as executive director, Hartley will support the organisation in its third decade which will see the ensemble embark on the first national tour of the American Railroad later this year. Hartley will also support the expansion of Silkroad’s educational and social impact programs including various residencies plus Silkroad Connect and the Global Musician Workshop.

Born in Sydney and currently living in New York, Hartley brings with him to his new role two decades of experience gained from posts including executive director of the National Arts Club in New York City, and leadership positions with the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the Museum of Arts and Design, and the Brooklyn Academy of Music. He also served as president of Louise Blouin Media and vice president of Ruder Finn Arts & Communications Counselors.

Accepting his new appointment, Hartley said: ‘Silkroad has a remarkable history and an exciting future. When musicians bring together divergent sounds and traditions for a harmonious and uplifting journey of joy, conversations, and understanding, the world is a better place. I look forward to building on the incredible legacy established by Yo-Yo Ma and the Silkroad artists as we take a new road into the future.’