A Yarmouth music center turns to Portland museum for its next leader
Photo / Courtesy Peter Frank Edwards
Graeme Kennedy
Yarmouth's 317 Main Community Music Center has hired Graeme Kennedy as its next executive director.
Kennedy, who most recently worked at the Portland Museum of Art, will take over from John Williams, who led 317 Main for 15 years.
“John’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and inclusive musical community has touched countless lives, from students and families to staff and volunteers,” said Shari Elder, president of the board of directors. “His vision and tireless efforts have built a strong foundation for 317 Main, and we are profoundly grateful for his service.”
Founded in 2004 by Peter Milliken, 317 Main Community Music Center works with more than 1,500 students across 61 towns and cities annually. The nonprofit offers a wide range of group classes, private lessons, community events and opportunities for people of all ages and skill levels.
Kennedy joins the Yarmouth nonprofit after more than a decade at the Portland Museum of Art, where he has been creative director and director of public relations.
He brings several years of music experience and is an award-winning musician. Prior to joining the Portland Museum of Art, he was the program director at Might & Main in South Portland, brand director at Rogues Gallery in Portland. He was also founder and label manager of Mckeenstreet Music and production director at Lapchich Baron.
“What impressed us most with Graeme, in addition to his work experience and connections in the Portland area, was his genuine interest in 317 Main and its mission,” said Elder. “We see in Graeme a charismatic leader, who believes in listening, collaboration, and transparency as well as decisiveness when needed. His passion for music shined through and impressed us all.”
In this new role, Kennedy will oversee the organization’s operations, programming, fundraising, and strategic initiatives. 317 Main recently expanded its campus with a 200-seat performance space, classrooms and a recording studio.
As part of this ongoing capital campaign, Kennedy will oversee ongoing efforts to complete fundraising for the expansion.
“I am deeply honored to partner with the incredibly talented artists and staff who have made 317 Main one of the region’s most beloved arts organizations,” said Kennedy. “For the past two decades, 317 Main has transformed countless lives through music, and I’m excited to explore how we can expand the center’s impact to as many people as possible throughout Maine and
Beyond.”
The Brunswick native received his bachelor’s degree in cultural studies and post-colonialism from the New School.
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