Rebecca Newcomer
Director of Operations and Arts Strategist

Can you tell us a little bit about what you do? (Your various writing hats!!)
As an artist and arts leader, I love blending creativity with connection. Whether I’m singing, teaching, designing, brainstorming ideas, or leading projects, I find immense joy in bringing artistic visions to life and creating meaningful experiences for others. As the Administrator for the Burbank Philharmonic and the Director of Operations at Salit Conservatory, my work combines performance, administration, graphic design, marketing, and audience engagement to showcase the incredible power of music and the arts.

Through thoughtful planning, innovative programming, and a spark of inspiration, I aim to bring people together and uplift communities. Whether it’s designing promotional materials, organizing concerts, fostering collaborations, or creating opportunities for others to connect with the arts, I’m passionate about proving that music and creativity aren’t just forms of expression—they’re powerful tools to connect, inspire, and spark change.

How did you first become interested in writing / the arts?
My love for the arts has been a lifelong journey, rooted in a deep passion for choral music and opera. From my earliest experiences singing in choirs and exploring the piano to traveling through Europe and Scandinavia as a singer, the arts have been the heart of my life. Performing in beautiful spaces, learning from incredible mentors, and stepping into roles in opera productions and musical theater shaped not only my path but also my perspective on the power of music to connect us all.

For me, it’s always been about more than just performing. There’s a joy in sharing music with others—in creating something meaningful together, whether it’s through the rich harmonies of a choir or the drama and beauty of an opera stage. That joy is what led me to arts education and administration, where I’ve found another way to make a difference. Music and Art has a unique way of bringing people together, of elevating communities, and leaving a lasting impact, and it’s a privilege to be part of that. It’s what inspires me to keep going and to share this passion with others every day.

How does art enrich a community, and what are some ways people can engage with art in Burbank?
Art is born from passion—an authentic desire to share something deeply meaningful with those around us. It’s an expression of who we are and what we value, capturing our stories, emotions, and dreams in ways that resonate across time and space. In a community, art becomes a shared language, creating connections and sparking inspiration in ways that words alone often cannot.

On February 2nd, the Burbank Creative Collective at Salit Conservatory will be a celebration of this very spirit. Sponsored by the Salit Foundation, where I am proud to serve as a Board member, this event brings together artists, creatives, and community members to connect, collaborate, and share their love for the arts. It’s a perfect opportunity to witness how creativity builds bridges and inspires new possibilities.

Engaging with the arts in Burbank can be as simple as attending a concert, visiting a gallery, or participating in a workshop. These moments of connection remind us that art is more than just an experience; it’s a gift we share with one another, born from our collective passion to create and connect.

If you could share with our community one thing about art and/or your creative process, what would it be?
If I could share one thing about art and my creative process, it would be that it’s fueled by passion, collaboration, and a lot of “get-up and go.” For me, creating art—whether it’s organizing a concert or developing a new project—starts with genuine enjoyment and a desire to explore a lingering curiosity. I often ask myself, What could this become, and how can it inspire creativity? That question shapes everything I do.

I love creating experiences that spark inspiration—not just in the moment but long after the applause fades. My goal is to craft events that encourage those in attendance to go home and create, to explore their own curiosity and find joy in making something meaningful. The process thrives on collaboration, drawing on the unique energy and perspectives of others to build something truly impactful. For me, it’s all about taking that initial spark and turning it into something that resonates, connects, and inspires creativity in others.

To find out more about Rebecca and her work, visit rebeccanewcomer.com