Dr. Sophié van der Westhuizen Joined Fontana Chamber Arts

The new leader takes the helm as the organization launches its milestone 25th anniversary concert season.

Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Classical

Bold vector editorial illustration of a cello leaning against a music stand, representing the Fontana Chamber Arts milestone season. — Dr. Sophié van der Westhuizen has been named the new Executive and Artistic Director of Fontana Chamber Arts in Kalamazoo as the organization begins its 25th anniversary season. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Dr. Sophié van der Westhuizen has assumed the role of Executive and Artistic Director of Fontana Chamber Arts. She replaces Bradley Wong, who served in the position starting in May 2022, as the Kalamazoo organization begins its 25th anniversary year.

Why it matters

The leadership change marks a new chapter for the organization, which balances community engagement with a mission to feature both established and rising musical artists.

Fontana Chamber Arts maintains a 25-year history of operations and produces four mainstage concerts annually. The organization utilizes a programming mix of one jazz, two traditional, and one creative performance.

The players

Dr. Sophié van der Westhuizen

She is the new Executive and Artistic Director of Fontana Chamber Arts and serves on the faculty of Kalamazoo College.

Bradley Wong

He is the former Executive Director of Fontana Chamber Arts who served in the role starting in May 2022.

Fontana Chamber Arts

This Kalamazoo-based nonprofit organization is currently celebrating its 25th anniversary of presenting classical and jazz music.

The details

Dr. van der Westhuizen, who also serves on the faculty of Kalamazoo College, will lead the nonprofit as it continues its tradition of student workshops and music camps. The group relies on private donors and grants to sustain its mission in the Kalamazoo region.

Bradley Wong began his tenure as Executive Director in May 2022.
The Relic Early Music Ensemble concert is set for October 2, 2026.
The David Shifrin and Miró Quartet concert takes place November 20, 2026.
The Cuba Meets Brazil concert is scheduled for February 19, 2027.
The Camerata RCO concert is scheduled for April 9, 2027.

Industry Dynamics

The leadership change at Fontana Chamber Arts coincides with the organization's 25th anniversary, reflecting a broader trend in arts management where groups pivot toward fresh institutional guidance during milestone years. This move positions the nonprofit to maintain its influence in the competitive classical music landscape.

The new director will oversee the upcoming 25th anniversary season at the Dalton Center Recital Hall, influencing the programming and community outreach efforts available to local residents. Patrons can expect the organization to continue its established format of jazz, traditional, and creative performances.

The takeaway

The appointment of a new director during a milestone anniversary year signals a commitment to institutional longevity and artistic continuity. Fans of the arts in the region should look forward to the upcoming 25th-anniversary performances as a reflection of the organization's evolving future.