Advisors M-Z

LEE MUSIKER

Artistic Advisor

New York, NY

Lee Musiker is a Grammy and Emmy award-winning pianist, conductor, music director, arranger/orchestrator, and composer. He has established a distinguished and multifaceted career as both soloist and collaborator with the premier artists in the Classical, Operatic, Broadway, Jazz and Pop music genres, including; Joshua Bell, Tony Bennett, Andrea Bocelli, Chris Botti, Michael Bublé, Kristin Chenoweth, Natalie Cole, Judy Collins, Barbara Cook, Eddie Daniels, Michael Feinstein, Renée Fleming, Aretha Franklin, Lady Gaga, Denyce Graves, Joel Grey, Josh Groban, Marvin Hamlisch, Marilyn Horne, Billy Joel, Elton John, Norah Jones, Diana Krall, Jerry Lewis, Seth MacFarlane, Wynton Marsalis, John Mayer, Paul McCartney, Audra McDonald, Maureen McGovern, Kelli O'Hara, Bernadette Peters, Buddy Rich, Sting, Barbra Streisand, James Taylor, Mel Tormé, and Dawn Upshaw.

A Steinway Artist, Lee Musiker has performed with the New York Philharmonic, Metropolitan Opera, Mostly Mozart, New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theater, Orpheus, Atlanta, Cleveland, Hollywood Bowl, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and London Symphony Orchestras; and the New York, Boston, Cincinnati, and Philly Pops.

Mr. Musiker has guest conducted the New York Philharmonic and the Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, National, and St. Louis Symphony Orchestras.

Lee Musiker has served on the faculties of the Mannes School of Music, The New School, and New York University. He has given Masterclasses at The Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Young Artists Program and Indiana University, and was a visiting Artist-in-Residence at the Tanglewood Music Center and Ravinia Steans Music Institute.

RAKESH NAI

Artistic Advisor

Vadodara, Gujarat, India

Founder & Director, Akshar Tabla Academy Alumnus, M.S. University – Faculty of Performing Arts, Baroda Music College

Mr. Rakesh Nai is a highly respected tabla virtuoso, educator, and cultural visionary whose lifelong dedication to the advancement of Indian classical music has left a profound impact on students, audiences, and fellow musicians. With over 24 years of teaching experience, he is widely recognized not only for his artistry on the tabla but also for his unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of performers and preserving the philosophical depth of this ancient rhythmic tradition.

Mr. Nai began his formal training in music at the prestigious Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, where he earned a postgraduate degree in tabla performance from the Faculty of Performing Arts. His studies there instilled in him a rigorous academic foundation, grounded in both performance technique and the theoretical, historical, and literary frameworks of Indian classical music. Under the guidance of eminent gurus, Mr. Nai deepened his understanding of tabla as both a solo and accompanying instrument, exploring its role in diverse musical traditions including Hindustani classical, devotional, and contemporary cross-cultural forms.

In the years following his academic journey, Mr. Nai embarked on a mission to expand access to high-quality tabla education. This vision materialized in the founding of Akshar Tabla Academy, a premier institution dedicated to the systematic, disciplined, and holistic training of students in the art of tabla. The academy has grown into a vibrant community, fostering an environment where technique and creativity go hand-in-hand with a deep respect for tradition, text (shastra), and meaning (artha). Mr. Nai’s pedagogical philosophy emphasizes not only precision and practice, but also the development of an inner understanding of rhythm as a form of self-expression and spiritual practice.

A true mentor and guide, Mr. Nai has successfully trained numerous students who have gone on to perform, teach, and win accolades in various forums. His commitment to each student’s individual growth is a hallmark of his approach, and his mentorship extends far beyond the classroom. He places great importance on cultivating discipline, humility, and a sense of responsibility toward the art form.

Complementing his work as an educator, Mr. Nai also founded Samanvay, a unique platform designed to bring together emerging artists from diverse musical and cultural backgrounds. Through Samanvay, young performers are given opportunities to collaborate, share their talents, and learn from one another, thereby promoting unity and a shared artistic purpose. These performances not only provide exposure to rising talents but also promote the message that music is a powerful tool for connection, community, and cultural dialogue.

Throughout his career, Mr. Nai has been invited to perform in numerous concerts and festivals across India and abroad, where his solo tabla recitals and accompaniment have earned critical acclaim. His playing is marked by clarity of tone, intricate rhythmic patterns, and a profound sense of emotional depth. Whether performing in a classical raga recital or a devotional setting, Mr. Nai brings a rare sensitivity and depth of expression to every performance.

Mr. Nai’s life and work reflect a deep reverence for the classical arts and an enduring belief in the transformative power of music. His legacy is not only measured in the accolades he has received or the performances he has given, but in the countless students whose lives have been touched and shaped by his teaching.

As a performer, educator, and cultural ambassador, Mr. Rakesh Nai continues to uphold the rich traditions of Indian classical music while fostering innovation, dialogue, and a vibrant future for the next generation of tabla artists.

EMMA OCAMPO
Senior Director, Global Accounts – HelmsBriscoe
Houston, TX

Emma Ocampo brings over 25 years of international experience in hospitality, site selection, and event management to her role as Senior Director, Global Accounts at HelmsBriscoe. Based in Houston, Texas, Emma is a trusted advisor to a diverse portfolio of clients across corporate, government, and association sectors. Her expertise spans every facet of the event planning cycle—from destination sourcing and vendor negotiations to marketing support and on-site execution.

Throughout her career, Emma has successfully organized and supported events ranging in size from intimate executive retreats to international conferences with more than 22,000 attendees. Her deep understanding of hotel sales and marketing, combined with her operational acumen, allows her to deliver exceptional value and results for her clients worldwide.

As a site selection expert, Emma guides clients through the development of strategic, detailed RFPs, ensuring clear communication with hotels, convention centers, and suppliers. She stays at the forefront of industry trends and legal considerations, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of evolving contract clauses and leveraging this insight to negotiate the most favorable terms and conditions on behalf of her clients.

Emma’s event planning capabilities include time and staff management, space allocation, vendor coordination, and banquet supervision. Her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering client advocacy have earned her HelmsBriscoe’s prestigious President’s Club Award 15 times—a testament to her performance, professionalism, and dedication.

Fluent in Spanish and globally minded, Emma holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from the University of Victoria in British Columbia, Canada. With a passion for creating unforgettable event experiences and a reputation for excellence, Emma continues to be a go-to partner for organizations seeking world-class meeting and event solutions.

EUGENE ROGERS

Artistic Advisor

Ann Arbor, MI

A Michigan Emmy Award winner, a Sphinx Medal of Excellence recipient, and GRAMMY Award nominee, Eugene Rogers is recognized as a leading conductor and pedagogue throughout the United States and abroad. In addition to serving as the founding director of EXIGENCE, Dr. Rogers is the director of choirs and an associate professor of conducting at the University of Michigan. Recently, he was named as the fifth Artistic Director of the two-time GRAMMY Award-Winning Ensemble, The Washington Chorus (Washington, D.C.).

At the University of Michigan, Rogers leads the graduate choral conducting program, conducts the chamber choir, and administers the program of eight choral ensembles. His choirs have toured throughout China, South Africa, the United States, and have appeared at national and regional conferences. Musical America has named Rogers one of the top 30 “Movers and Shapers.” Previous appointments include the University of Michigan Men’s Glee Club, Macalester College (St. Paul, Minnesota), the Boys Choir of Harlem, Waubonsie Valley High School (Aurora, Illinois), and Anima Young Singers (Chicago, Illinois).

Rogers’ passion for issues of social justice and music was featured in the award-winning documentary Love, Life and Loss which highlights Joel Thompson’s powerful Seven Last Words of the Unarmed.

Rogers holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in choral music education from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign and the Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees in choral conducting from the University of Michigan. He currently serves on the board of Chorus America and is the former national chair of the Diversity Initiatives Committee for the American Choral Directors Association.

SCOTT J. SHOLDER

Cowan, Debaets, Abrahams & Sheppard LLP, Partner and Co-Chair of CDAS’s Litigation Group

New York, NY

Scott J. Sholder, Co-Chair of the firm’s Litigation group, focuses his practice on litigation, counseling, and dispute resolution in connection with entertainment, media, art, and intellectual property matters. Scott represents and advises clients across various industries in copyright, trademark, trade secrets, right-of-publicity, unfair competition, domain name, and commercial and business disputes, as well as defamation defense. He has appeared in federal and state courts around the country as well as administrative and arbitral tribunals and has handled cases from pre-suit negotiations through trial, post-trial procedures, and appeals. His clients range from major media and entertainment companies and A-list talent to closely held and startup businesses and individuals in need of advice on intellectual property or guidance concerning brewing or existing legal conflicts.

Scott is a skilled advocate and understands the risks, benefits, and practical considerations inherent in intellectual property and media and entertainment legal matters and knows how to make use of available leverage and industry knowledge to reach a favorable conclusion. He utilizes a principled yet practical approach to litigation with an eye toward efficient resolution in line with the client’s business needs and financial realities.

A frequent writer and speaker on issues related to copyright and trademark in the entertainment and digital media space, with a recent focus on generative AI, Scott is a regular contributor to major legal publications and has published several law review articles. He has also authored numerous amicus briefs in the Courts of Appeal and U.S. Supreme Court addressing important and cutting-edge issues in copyright law.

EMMA SMYTH

Senior Associate Director, Leadership Giving at Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH

Emma Smyth is the Senior Associate Director of Leadership Giving at Dartmouth College. Over more than a decade as a development officer, she has served in similar capacities at Vanderbilt University and with the Oklahoma City Symphony Chorus (Canterbury Voices). A seasoned arts administrator, she served as Manager of Artistic Administration for the Nashville Symphony and has produced dozens of concerts at Carnegie Hall. Also an accomplished flautist, Emma holds degrees from New York University and the University of Arkansas, and she continues to play professionally with the Fort Smith Symphony.

JEAN-CLAUDE WILKENS

Artistic Advisor

Lyon, France

Jean-Claude Wilkens is a widely respected figure in the global choral community, recognized for his decades-long leadership and passionate advocacy for the power of collective singing. Over the course of his career, he has played an instrumental role in shaping the landscape of choral music both in France and internationally.

Most notably, Wilkens served as the Executive Director of À Cœur Joie, France’s national choral organization, where he dedicated himself to broadening access to choral singing, fostering musical excellence, and strengthening community through song. Under his leadership, the organization experienced renewed vitality, expanded its outreach, and deepened its commitment to education and artistic collaboration. His tenure was marked by strategic partnerships, innovative programming, and a strong emphasis on cultural exchange.

Prior to this role, Jean-Claude Wilkens held the position of Secretary-General of the International Federation for Choral Music (IFCM), the leading international body promoting choral music worldwide. In this role, he facilitated connections among choirs, conductors, composers, and institutions across continents, organizing events and initiatives that encouraged artistic dialogue and mutual understanding through choral music. His work at the IFCM helped elevate the visibility and impact of global choral movements, making lasting contributions to international music diplomacy.

A visionary leader with a deep love for the choral arts, Wilkens has been a frequent speaker at festivals, symposia, and conferences, always emphasizing the humanistic and unifying potential of singing together. He has also contributed to the development of choral networks and educational initiatives that continue to benefit singers and conductors today.

Now retired, Jean-Claude Wilkens remains an influential presence in the world of choral music. His legacy endures through the many institutions, projects, and people he has inspired over the years. His life's work stands as a testament to the belief that music—and particularly the shared experience of choral singing—can build bridges across cultures and enrich lives on a profound level.

MARTHA WADE

Artistic Advisor

New York, NY

Martha Wade founded Wade Artist Management in 1999 to personally represent top-level classical and jazz artists, combining her wide experience as a professional musician and consultant to New York-based artist managements. Wade Artist Management is committed to nurturing artists’ careers and building strong relationships with arts organizations throughout the United States.

Artists under Martha Wade's auspices have performed with the Metropolitan Opera, Houston Grand Opera, Los Angeles Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, New York City Opera, San Francisco Opera, Seattle Opera, and Washington National Opera, in addition to opera companies and venues throughout the country including Anchorage Opera, Austin Opera, Bard Festival, Beth Morrison Projects (BMP), Boheme Opera NJ, Buffalo Opera Unlimited, Cedar Rapids Opera, Chicago Opera Theater, Cleveland Opera, Dallas Opera, Fargo-Moorhead Opera, First Coast Opera, Florentine Opera, Fresno Grand Opera, Hawaii Opera Theatre, Kyrenia Opera, the little OPERA theatre of NY (LOTNY), Long Beach Opera, Mobile Opera, Odyssey Opera, Opera Company of Middlebury, Opera Hong Kong, Opera Idaho, Opera Mississippi, Opera Naples, Opera Roanoke, Opera Tampa, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, Palm Beach Opera, St. Petersburg Opera, Salt Marsh Opera, Sarasota Opera, Syracuse Opera, Teatro Grattacielo, Teatro Nuovo, Toledo Opera, Union Avenue Opera, Utah Festival Opera, Utah Opera, Virginia Opera, and Winter Opera St. Louis.

Concert engagements form an essential part of Wade Artist Management's portfolio. Our artists have performed with orchestras and presenters including the New York Philharmonic, the Cleveland Pops Orchestra, National Chorale, the Orchestra of St. Luke's, Seattle Symphony, Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Distinguished Concerts International New York (DCINY), Manhattan Concert Productions (MCP), and MidAmerica Productions (MAP), and also including Amor Artis, Anchorage Symphony, the Atrium at Lincoln Center, Baltimore Symphony, Boise Philharmonic, Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, The Frick Pittsburgh museum concert series, Gateway Chamber Orchestra, Greenwich Choral Society, Helena Symphony Orchestra, Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Kansas City Symphony, Long Beach Symphony, Naples Philharmonic Orchestra, North Carolina Symphony, Rhode Island Civic Chorale and Orchestra, Richmond Symphony Orchestra, and the Westfield Symphony.

ARJUN SODHI

New Delhi, India

Arjun Sodhi is a polymath whose visionary work transcends traditional boundaries, weaving together a profound understanding of architecture, design, technology, and ecology. His life’s work is a reflection of an intricate balance between art, science, and philosophy, and his creative output speaks volumes about his commitment to creating a better, more sustainable world. But for Arjun, it’s not just about the designs themselves—it’s about the underlying principle that every creation should serve the greater good.

Mr. Sodhi is an inventor, creator, architect, designer, and artistic director whose work spans multiple disciplines and continues to push the boundaries of what design can achieve. Based in New Delhi, India, Arjun is not only known for his innovative designs but also for his unique approach to creating objects and environments that are both beautiful and sustainable. His career is a testament to the convergence of art, technology, and ecology, as he strives to create solutions that improve the lives of people globally.

Directly descended from the Renaissance artists, Arjun’s vision reflects a deep commitment to simplicity and sustainability. He believes that creation, in any form, must serve a purpose that enhances human life, driven by a humanist and ecological philosophy. Arjun’s journey is marked by a rich array of projects—from everyday products like furniture and utensils to groundbreaking technologies like rentable energy solutions and electric vehicles. His work embodies the intersection of form and function, focusing on reducing complexity to highlight the essential while maintaining an unwavering respect for nature.

A true visionary, Arjun has become a leading figure in sustainable design. His projects have ranged from revolutionary hotels designed to immerse guests in phantasmagorical experiences, to electric vehicles that push the limits of technology while remaining environmentally responsible. Throughout all his endeavors, Arjun's guiding principle has been to create with purpose—objects and spaces that not only serve a functional need but also inspire and promote a more sustainable, equitable future.

Early Influences and Philosophy

Growing up in India, Arjun’s connection to both his heritage and the modern world was cultivated through a unique intersection of cultures and disciplines. Inspired by both ancient craftsmanship and contemporary innovation, he became fascinated with how objects can influence human behavior and experience. This duality—honoring tradition while embracing progress—became the cornerstone of his approach to design and invention.

Arjun’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in humanism and ecological awareness. He is an advocate for simplicity and elegance, which he views as essential to sustainability. By stripping away the superfluous, Arjun's work seeks to uncover the essential truths of form, function, and materiality. This minimalist approach is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating objects and experiences that are efficient, enduring, and aligned with nature’s own principles of balance and harmony.

Convergence, Dematerialization, and Sustainable Innovation

One of Arjun's key concepts is "convergence," the idea that different disciplines, technologies, and cultures should come together to form a cohesive whole. This approach allows for the cross-pollination of ideas, leading to innovative solutions that draw from multiple fields of knowledge. At the heart of this convergence is his commitment to "dematerialization," a concept in which the material nature of an object is minimized without sacrificing its purpose or value. By emphasizing what is truly necessary, Arjun designs with both form and function in mind, ensuring that each creation has a lasting impact on people and the environment.

Through his inventions, Arjun has brought to life everyday products, architectural marvels, and revolutionary technologies that reflect his commitment to both utility and beauty. His designs are not simply objects; they are solutions to some of the most pressing challenges of our time—whether that be in terms of sustainability, accessibility, or the future of mobility.

Iconic Creations and Projects

Arjun’s portfolio is as diverse as it is impressive. He has created everything from elegant furniture and utensils to large-scale, immersive architectural projects. One of his most celebrated ventures has been in the field of sustainable energy technologies, where he developed rentable energy solutions that empower communities to access renewable energy without the burden of ownership. This model allows for greater flexibility and resource distribution, marking a shift toward more equitable and sustainable energy use.

His work in the realm of electric vehicles further demonstrates his commitment to a cleaner future. With an eye toward reducing the environmental impact of traditional cars, Arjun has contributed to the design of electric vehicles that are not only eco-friendly but also visually striking and functionally innovative. His designs embody the intersection of beauty, technology, and sustainability, challenging the conventional perceptions of what eco-friendly products can look and feel like.

But perhaps one of his most ambitious projects is his involvement in the creation of hotels that are as much about experience as they are about function. These hotels are designed to be "phantasmagorical" in nature, blending architectural artistry with cutting-edge technology to create spaces that transport guests into entirely new worlds. These spaces are meant to be more than just places to stay—they are destinations in themselves, fostering connections between people and nature, between past and future, and between innovation and tradition.

Vision for the Future

Arjun’s vision extends far beyond the completion of any single project. He is driven by a belief that design has the power to change the world—not just by improving individual products but by shifting entire cultural paradigms. He imagines a future where design is not simply about consumerism, but about enriching human lives and creating equitable, sustainable societies.

His approach to design is also informed by his prophetic awareness of ecological issues. He is deeply concerned with the long-term impact of human activity on the planet, and as such, his creations are always mindful of their environmental footprint. From the materials he chooses to the energy systems he designs, Arjun consistently strives for ecological harmony.

Through his work, Arjun seeks to inspire others—whether fellow designers, entrepreneurs, or everyday people—to think critically about the impact of their choices. For him, this is not just a professional pursuit; it is a moral imperative, one that is intertwined with his deep sense of ethical responsibility.

Legacy and the Human Touch

What truly sets Arjun Sodhi apart is his unwavering dedication to the human side of design. While many may view innovation through the lens of technology or economics, Arjun understands that design must ultimately serve humanity—not just as a product of its time, but as a reflection of its values. His work is a living testament to his belief that design should be a means of improving human lives and addressing the greatest challenges of our era.

With every project, Arjun takes on the responsibility of not just innovating, but also of crafting solutions that are grounded in a deep understanding of both people and the planet. His designs do not merely exist; they make an impact, lasting far beyond the boundaries of traditional design.

As a creator, inventor, and visionary, Arjun Sodhi continues to shape the future with every project he undertakes. Through his work, he has demonstrated that innovation and sustainability need not be mutually exclusive—and that when done right, design can be both beautiful and transformative for the world at large.

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