Spotlights
Spotlight on Creativity
September 2008
September's spotlight on creativity is local creative professional, Dawn Frisby Byers. As Executive Director of the Philadelphia Chapter of The Recording Academy, Dawn develops and executes outreach programs, advocacy initiatives, professional education and special events for the Philadelphia Chapter. She took the position in July 2008 and relocated back to her home town, Philadelphia.
Prior to joining The Academy, Dawn was vice president of marketing and communications for the Apollo Theater Foundation. She has also held positions including Director of Entertainment Licensing for Sesame Workshop, and Director of Consumer Marketing for Bravo Cable Network.
Your name:
Dawn Frisby Byers
Firm/company:
The Recording Academy®, Philadelphia Chapter
Occupation:
Executive Director
Current Location:
Philadelphia
Hometown:
Philadelphia
Favorite Philadelphia neighborhood:
I was raised in Mt. Airy and I love the stately old houses in Mt. Airy, Chestnut Hill, and Germantown.
Best advice you've ever been given:
Do what you love and it will never seem like work.
Your favorite thing about living in the Philadelphia Region:
After 15 years living in Manhattan, I love how green Philadelphia is. I am enjoying living among trees and grass, which are in short supply in NYC.
Your favorite thing about working in the Philadelphia Region:
Center City has changed a lot, and I enjoy discovering new stores and restaurants.
How would you market the Philadelphia Region to professionals outside the region?
Philadelphia is the perfect East Coast location - 11/2 hours from New York, 21/2 hours from Washington DC, and less than an hour away from the shore.
What advice would you give to young professionals trying to break into your industry?
Be diligent and do your homework. If you really want a career in the entertainment industry, take the initiative to investigate different career options, for example positions in the technical, marketing, legal, and production fields. For every one successful performer there are 99 people behind the scenes that made it possible.
The Recording Academy®, known internationally as the GRAMMY® Awards, is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. The Philadelphia Chapter was founded in 1994 and serves the music community in the tri-state area and its members reflect Philadelphia's diverse music artistry. The Chapter provides networking, professional development, advocacy, and educational opportunities.
For more information about Dawn's work in the region, visit: http://www.grammy.com/Recording_Academy/Chapters/Philadelphia.