Nonprofit Executive and Arts Advocate
Markus Gottschlich
Markus Gottschlich is an internationally experienced nonprofit arts leader with a track record of revitalizing organizations, expanding community impact, and increasing access to arts and culture. From Florida to New Mexico, Miami to Vienna, his leadership has transformed institutions through strategic fundraising, innovative programming, and inclusive educational outreach—earning national recognition and fostering meaningful cultural exchange.
Read on to discover some of the projects that Markus has been a part of…
Warehouse Arts District Association
At the Warehouse Arts District Association (WADA), I’ve had the privilege of leading a powerful transformation rooted in community, equity, and sustainability. Under my leadership, WADA was named the #3 Arts District in the U.S. by USA Today and voted the #1 Arts Advocacy Organization in 2024 for our strong response to state funding cuts. We doubled contributions, tripled grant income, and quadrupled event revenue—all while expanding free arts education in underserved neighborhoods, launching relief programs for displaced artists, and advancing a landmark workforce housing initiative. This video offers a glimpse into how we’ve turned vision into impact, and why WADA has become a national model for artist-led revitalization.
Vienna Music Institute
At the Vienna Music Institute (VMI), I had the opportunity to help shape the next generation of music professionals by founding and building the school’s Music Business program. In addition to designing the curriculum, I taught courses in composition, piano, music marketing and branding—giving students a well-rounded foundation to thrive creatively and professionally. I’ve always believed that empowering artists with the tools to navigate the industry is just as essential as honing their craft. As a juror for the ICMP Songwriting Contest, I’ve also had the honor of supporting emerging talent on an international stage, helping to recognize and elevate new voices in contemporary music.
New Mexico Jazz Workshop
At the New Mexico Jazz Workshop (NMJW), I stepped in to lead one of the Southwest’s most historic jazz and blues presenters and helped usher in a new era of creativity and impact. Through fresh concert programming and expanded education initiatives, we reconnected the organization with its community and broadened its reach. I launched a statewide honor band and a student competition that gave young musicians the chance to perform internationally in Europe—creating real pathways for talent development. This video highlights how honoring tradition and embracing innovation helped revitalize a beloved cultural institution.
Miami Beach Jazz Festival & Jazz Academy Miami
As the founding Artistic Director, I helped build the Miami Beach Jazz Festival (MBJF) and its educational arm, JAM (Jazz Academy Miami), into one of the most exciting new platforms for jazz in the country. Named one of the top winter jazz festivals by DownBeat Magazine, the festival featured world-class artists across multiple venues and offered year-round programming that brought the music to life well beyond a single weekend. Through JAM, we created meaningful educational opportunities—including a student competition, mentorship programs, and community workshops—that connected young musicians directly with the artists shaping the future of the genre.
Work with Markus
