Performance Today has announce that Deborah Borda has been named the 2024 Classical Woman of the Year.

The title is awarded to exceptional women who have made significant contributions to the world of classical music art form and who provide inspiration for listeners. Borda is an advocate for the performing arts was chosen for her outstanding leadership and dedication to advancing the classical music industry.

Borda currently serves as Executive Advisor to the President and Board of Directors at the New York Philharmonic. She has also held the position of CEO with the New York Philharmonic and in 2023, Borda was named an Honorary Member of the Society for her outstanding service to the organization and the world of music.

Throughout her career she has also held positions with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra. She holds numerous Honorary Doctor of Music degrees from The Julliard School, Curtis Institute of Music, Manhattan School of Music and New England Conservatory.

In a statement, Fred Child, host and senior editor of Performance Today said, “I’m thrilled that Deborah Borda is our 2024 Performance Today Classical Woman of the Year. Though much of her career has been behind-the-scenes, some of the most cherished aspects of today’s classical scene wouldn’t be what they are without her guiding spirit, and determination. She combines the forward-thinking savvy and intelligent risk-taking of an entrepreneur with the passionate dedication of an artist. It is with great pleasure that we recognize Deborah Borda with this well-deserved award.”