Perlman announces Chang-Barnes as interim director at Lied Center

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Harvey Perlman today announced the appointment of Ann Chang-Barnes as interim director of the Lied Center for Performing Arts. Chang-Barnes, artist-in-residence as a pianist in the UNL School of Music, was a long-time member of the Lied Center' advisory board until 2007.

Chang-Barnes is the founder of the Meadowlark Music Festival, the award-winning summer music festival that won national acclaim and was featured on National Public Radio. She brought world-class musicians and performers to Nebraska to participate in the week-long festival of concerts, classes, and other activities that attracted a broad audience to enjoy a variety of performances in Lincoln and other parts of the state. In addition to founding the festival, Ann Chang-Barnes served as its executive and artistic director for six years. Chang-Barnes has also provided leadership in the arts entrepreneurship initiatives of the School of Music.

An artist-in-residence as a pianist in the School of Music, Chang-Barnes coordinates the chamber music program, in partnership with the Chiara String Quartet. She has a doctorate of music in piano performance from Indiana University-Bloomington and was recently named a Fulbright Scholar.

"I am delighted that Dr. Chang-Barnes has agreed to serve in this very important role for the university," said Perlman. "She is an accomplished musician with extensive fund-raising and business experience in the arts. She has the vision, energy, and tenacity that will serve the Lied, the university, and the people of Nebraska well. I am confident of her capabilities as an artistic and a business leader."

Chang-Barnes will begin her duties as interim director of the Lied Center May 19 and will serve until a permanent director is named. She takes the interim role to replace director Charles Bethea who retired May 12.