R.I. Philharmonic appoints pair to board of directors

EAST PROVIDENCE – The Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School has announced the appointment of two new members to its Board of Directors: Brendan McCorry, managing partner of the Providence office of Ernst & Young, and Dr. Edward J. Wing, former dean of medicine and biological sciences at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University.

McCorry grew up in Pawtucket when music education was better funded in Rhode Island school districts. He started playing the clarinet in the fourth grade as part of Pawtucket’s school music program, and firmly believes in the importance of access to arts education.

“I have been impressed with the R.I. Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School’s dedication to growing access to music enrichment throughout Rhode Island and specifically in my hometown,” McCorry said. “Ernst & Young is committed to working with organizations — such as the R.I. Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School — that make Rhode Island a better place to live, work and raise a family. For many years, the R.I. Philharmonic has been a great partner, and I am delighted to be a part of moving the organization forward as a board member.”

For the past three years, Wing has been an adult piano student at the Music School. Wing, who lives in Providence, has always been devoted to education and is known for his acumen at building strong relationships with partners, and for providing strategic planning and mutual reinforcement for academic programs. During his tenure as dean, his highest priority was construction of Brown’s new medical school campus, which was completed in 2011.

“The orchestra is world class. The R.I. Philharmonic Music School brings lifelong opportunities to children and to adults, including me,” Wing said. “I’m thrilled to join the board and support the work of this great institution.”

David Beauchesne, executive director of Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School, said: “I wholeheartedly welcome Brendan and Edward to our R.I .Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School family. They both understand how important music and music education is to our region.”