Every great musician, band and orchestra needs a fantastic manager on the backend ensuring they find the opportunities they need. Anwar Nasir, Executive Director of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, has found an abundance of opportunities in music and life. Hailing from Philadelphia, Nasir’s career journey had him jet-setting to Atlanta, Los Angeles and Omaha, Nebraska, until he landed in New Orleans. Since 2021, Nasir has led the only full-time, musician-governed orchestra within the country. Orchestral arrangements don’t have to stay in the wheelhouse of classical music. Under Nasir, the LPO has collaborated with some of Louisiana’s brightest stars, including Big Freedia, Juvenile, Dawn Richard, and Tank & the Bangas. This year, the LPO received its first Grammy Award for Best Regional Roots Music album with the Lost Bayou Ramblers. Nasir is giving life to Louisiana's diverse musical heritage and paying it forward. — J.S.M.