We’re thrilled to announce that cellist Lisë Engel will step into the role of Personnel Manager for the Waco Symphony beginning with the 2025–2026 season. We couldn’t be more excited for what lies ahead under her leadership. 

Lisë’s connection with the Waco Symphony runs deep. She first auditioned and won a contract with the Waco Symphony in 1992, performing with us for several years. It was during this time that she met her future husband, Richard, in the cello section. After the two started a family, Lisë transitioned to performing as a substitute, periodically gracing our stage with her musicianship. In the last two seasons, she returned to the Waco Symphony with renewed commitment and has once again become a regular presence on stage. 

With more than 30 years of experience in the music industry, Lisë brings a remarkable breadth of knowledge and perspective to this position. Her career has taken her across the United States, South America, Asia, and Europe, and she has performed with a number of respected ensembles, including: 

• Dallas Opera Orchestra 
• Dallas Symphony Orchestra 
• Dallas Summer Musicals 
• Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra 
• Casa Mañana 
• Shreveport Symphony Orchestra 
• Oklahoma City Philharmonic 
• East Texas Symphony Orchestra 
• Wichita Falls Symphony Orchestra 

In addition to her performing career, Lisë has spent more than two decades as a private cello teacher and ensemble coach, further enriching her understanding of the musical community from the ground up. 

What makes Lisë’s appointment especially exciting is her unique blend of musical expertise and strong administrative and corporate experience. Her natural ability to connect with others, paired with her collaborative spirit and professionalism, makes her an ideal fit for this important role. We are confident that she will serve our musicians and the organization with insight, warmth, and excellence. 

We would like to extend our deepest thanks to Mark Whitney for his dedicated service as Personnel Manager since 2008 and for an incredible 40 years of performance with the Waco Symphony. His contributions have been invaluable, and we are grateful for his leadership and commitment to the orchestra over the decades. 

Please join us in welcoming Lisë to her new role — we look forward to the season ahead with great anticipation!