Alexander “Axl” Pons is the Executive Director and Development Officer of the Westerville Symphony, where he leads the organization’s strategic direction, oversees development and donor relations, and helps shape its artistic and community impact. A gifted oboist, experienced arts administrator, and passionate advocate for orchestral music, Axl bridges the artistic and operational sides of the symphony with clarity, creativity, and purpose.

Since joining the Westerville Symphony as Principal Oboe in 2019, Axl has played a vital role both on stage and behind the scenes. He stepped into the Executive Director role in 2022, bringing with him a deep understanding of nonprofit leadership and an unwavering commitment to expanding access to classical music. Under his guidance, the Symphony has grown its community partnerships, launched new fundraising efforts, and refined its artistic mission to better serve a diverse and evolving audience.

Before his work in Westerville, Axl served as Education and Operations Manager for the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, where he managed day-to-day operations and developed engaging education programs for young musicians and schools across the region. He also maintains an active performance career, holding positions with the Ashland Symphony Orchestra and performing regularly with the Columbus Symphony as an Associate Musician.

Axl earned his Master of Music from the Cleveland Institute of Music and his Bachelor of Music from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. A thoughtful leader with a deep love of the orchestral tradition, he brings vision, experience, and heart to every aspect of his work with the Westerville Symphony.