A native of Pendleton, Oregon, J.D. Kindle has served as Executive Director of the Oregon East Symphony since 2015. Under his leadership, the Symphony has expanded its concert programming, strengthened its educational outreach, and achieved significant organizational growth—including a 49% increase in concert attendance, an eightfold increase in cash assets, and the creation of the Nelson Endowment Fund. He guided the development of the Symphony’s first strategic plan incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion goals, and oversaw the hiring of the Symphony’s first Education Director to expand capacity for its award-winning youth music education programs.

Prior to his appointment as Executive Director, Kindle served as the Symphony’s Programs Manager and developed a strong background in concert production, grant development, and community partnerships. He also helped establish the Northwest Orchestras Gathering, serving on the founding steering committee that brought together peer organizations to collaborate and share best practices. Beyond his administrative career, Kindle is an accomplished independent musician and music instructor, with more than two decades of experience as a performer, songwriter, and teacher.

He has further contributed to regional arts development as a grant developer for the Rivoli Theater Restoration Coalition and through service on boards including the Pendleton Center for the Arts and the Rotary Club of Pendleton. Kindle studied at Blue Mountain Community College and Eastern Oregon University. Deeply rooted in Eastern Oregon, he is committed to fostering cultural enrichment and expanding access to the arts across Eastern Oregon.

Nicole Katsel graduated from Oregon State University in 2024 with degrees in Human Development & Family Studies and General Music, along with a minor in Education. While at OSU, she served as Band Manager for the university’s athletic bands, coordinating travel, supporting performances, and helping operations run smoothly—while also performing with the group.

In her role with the Oregon East Symphony office, Nicole supports day-to-day operations and administrative tasks, helping keep the organization efficient and well-organized. Originally from Hermiston, she is glad to be working in the region she calls home and enjoys being involved in music both behind the scenes and as a performer.

Janet Miller has been an integral part of Oregon East Symphony since its earliest days. In October 1986, she attended rehearsals for the very first Symphony and Chorale performance of Handel’s Messiah, marking the beginning of her long-standing involvement with the program. In the spring of 1987, Janet served as co-chair of the first organized Chorale Committee, helping to build the foundation for the program’s continued success.

During the organization’s early years, Janet also contributed musically by playing the clarinet in the OES Orchestra. Her leadership extended further when she served on the OES Board from 1989 through 1996, supporting the organization’s growth and development.

Since January 1995, Janet has served as the organization’s grant writer, helping secure funding that sustains and expands its programs. Today, as Grant Coordinator, Janet continues to play a vital role in supporting the mission and ensuring its future through successful grant development and management.