Los Angeles Music and Art School Appoints Daniel A. Almanza as Executive Director

Accomplished arts leader and East LA native to begin role January 5, 2026

The Los Angeles Music and Art School (LAMusArt) announces the appointment of Daniel A. Almanza as its next Executive Director. An accomplished arts leader and East Los Angeles native, Almanza brings nearly twenty years of experience building strong community partnerships, developing operational systems focused on long-term sustainability, and elevating the role of the arts in youth development and community wellbeing.

Almanza is a native Angeleno who grew up in City Terrace and El Sereno and is an LAUSD graduate. He earned his Bachelor’s in Music Education and Master of Science in Business from the University of Southern California. His career includes advising over 30 school district and nonprofit leaders at Impact Focused Advisors, partnering with organizations like LACOE and Turnaround Arts CA, overseeing a $2 million school district community partnership portfolio for a regional arts service organization, guiding $1.7 million in statewide music education grants at the Save The Music Foundation, and revitalizing the music program at Don Bosco into a nationally recognized program that grew to serve a quarter of the student body and secured more than $300,000 in program assets. As a leader, he believes in cultivating positive relationships, building capacity, and approaching his work with a combination of head and heart, using business acumen and community insight to drive impact.

“We are excited to welcome Daniel as our next Executive Director,” said Cynthia Pearson, Board President of LAMusArt. “He brings a deep understanding of our community and values, a commitment to access and sustainability, and a thoughtful approach to leadership. His experience will help strengthen our programs and our partnerships as we look toward the future.”

“I am honored to return to the community that raised me,” said Almanza. “LAMusArt has been a creative home for generations of young people and families. In my first months, I look forward to listening and connecting with our students, families, staff, board members, teaching artists, and community to understand how we can continue to unite our community through the arts. Together, we can build on the school’s long history and strengthen the role of the arts in our community.”

As Executive Director, Almanza will work with staff and the Board of Directors to guide the school’s strategic direction, strengthen partnerships, and lead resource development to support high-quality programs in music, art, dance, and theater. The organization will continue to prioritize affordability, access, and creative opportunities for young people across East Los Angeles.