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Karen Raven
Karen grew up in Marion, Ind., and earned her B.M. from Indiana University's School of Music as a voice major. A master's degree in opera stage direction from the same school followed. Before her arrival at Juilliard in 1990, she worked as director of development for the Queens Symphony Orchestra. Prior to that, she managed a community arts organization in Westerly, R.I.
What are the most striking differences between Juilliard now and Juilliard when you first started?
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| Karen Raven at Mount Rainier National Park in September 2005. (Photo by Bill Ehrlich) |
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The scope of activities, in curriculum and performances—and in fund-raising—has grown dramatically. I am especially impressed by the number of programs that have been created in the past 15 years to help students develop as well-rounded people as well as performers. When students need to spend as much time in isolated practice as most Juilliard students do, it's critical but at the same time very challenging to balance that intensity with activities that are just as compelling. I think Juilliard has done that very well. And as Juilliard's programs and needs grow, so does the development effort! When I came here, there were six people in the Development Office; today that number is 20 and all of us are scrambling like mad to keep up with the work before us. But it's been very rewarding to see how the thread of a good idea can take hold and become part of the fabric of school.
What is one of your favorite memories from your years here?
I will never forget the faculty recital honoring violinist Joseph Fuchs, who was celebrating his 50th year on the faculty. The performance concluded with Bach's Concerto for Two Violins, featuring Joseph Fuchs himself, then 95, as one of the soloists. Glenn Dicterow, Robert Mann, Ivan Galamian, Stephen Clapp, Joel Smirnoff, Samuel Rhodes, Toby Appel, and Joel Krosnick were among the small group of distinguished faculty who played with a deferential and watchful eye toward their colleague in the front row. I've never heard music played with more admiration and love.
How has your current position changed or evolved in the years you've been in it?
My current position grew out of the director of annual giving job, in which I oversaw most facets of contributions from individual donors, whether they were alumni or Juilliard Association members or simply people who loved the performing arts and wanted to support the School. When the Campaign for Juilliard began, we needed more focused work with major donors and further development of a planned-giving program, and I was promoted to my present position, where I have the privilege of talking with people about what they'd like to do for Juilliard and how we can make that happen either now or at some point in the future.
What would students be surprised to learn about your job?
Maybe they would be surprised to learn that there are actual people—and very generous people—standing behind their educations who have a deep commitment to the performing arts and are counting on them to carry its future. Also that Juilliard really does need money, and a lot of it, in order to do all the important work that takes place here.
What is the strangest or most memorable job you've ever had, and what made it so?
I once was a sub in the percussion section of a professional community orchestra I managed back in Indiana. The orchestra was to perform Rimsky-Korsakov's Snow Maiden Suite in three concerts, and two of the three percussionists had to back out at the last minute. I think I played the triangle and tambourine, which are actually very prominent in that piece. Managing the orchestra was fun, but playing in it was terrific!
Do you continue your artistic endeavors, and if so, how do you balance them with your job?
I don't seem to be able to find that balance these days. A few years ago I took up voice lessons for the first time since college, and really loved singing German lieder again. But my time for practicing became less and less, and it's miserable singing when you're not able to practice! One day I'll take it up again.
What was the best vacation you've had and what made it so special?
My last vacation is always my favorite. Recently I went hiking in Ireland, where the countryside was beautiful, the people were open and generous, and the music in the pubs was fantastic!
What might people be surprised to know about you?
I really enjoy hiking. The vigorous activity, beautiful countryside, and fresh air provide refreshing contrasts to city life.
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