Kinhaven is pleased to announce a significant and noteworthy leadership transition for its beloved Junior Session. After 15 years of dedicated service (and 35 years overall) Martha (Marty) Knieriem has announced her retirement as the Director of Junior Session. Taking the reins is Kenneth (Kenny) Bean, a long-time Kinhaven faculty member and alumnus, who will assume the role of Director effective immediately.
Marty Knieriem’s tenure as Director has been marked by her unwavering commitment to fostering musical excellence, community, and personal growth among Kinhaven’s youngest participants. Under her leadership, the Junior Session flourished, with students and families continually praising the program for its nurturing environment and transformative experiences. In reflecting on the depth of tradition that Nancy Bidlack forged in creating Junior Session in 1990, we want to share special acknowledgement and recognition of the integral work of Sandy Dennis, Marty’s longtime Co-Director (and one of the original faculty members of Junior Session), and the unparalleled foundational work of Jerry and Nancy Bidlack, both of whom preceded Marty and dedicated themselves to Kinhaven for more than 40 years.
In Marty’s words: “It was my privilege to serve young musicians and Kinhaven in this way. In the words of a mentor who for many years ran a similar program, ‘How do you really want to spend your life?’
Kinhaven has been a transformative experience for me and I am happy to turn the Directorship over to Kenny Bean. He knows the workings of Junior Session from the inside out and is the best possible choice for adhering to tradition and moving Nancy’s dream forward.”
Kenneth Bean brings a wealth of experience and passion to his new role as Director. An accomplished conductor, educator, and trumpeter, Kenny has been a vital part of the Kinhaven family for many years, inspiring students and faculty alike with his musical expertise and dedication to the school’s mission.
In accepting the position, Kenny said: “It is an honor to take on the role of Director of Junior Session at Kinhaven, a program that has been such an important part of my life and the lives of countless young musicians. I am deeply committed to preserving the spirit and vision that have made this program a beacon of musical growth and community.
I would like to thank Nancy Bidlack for her trust in me when I first joined the Kinhaven family, as well as Marty and Sandy Dennis-Knieriem for their extraordinary contributions over 35 years. Their leadership has left an enduring legacy, and I am privileged to build on the foundation they’ve created.
At its core, Kinhaven is about more than music–it’s about fostering creativity, collaboration and a sense of belonging. My vision is to ensure that these values continue to thrive, providing students with transformative experiences that shape their artistic journeys and their lives.”
Kinhaven’s Co-Executive Director, Tony Mazzocchi, remarked on the transition: “Marty’s contributions to Kinhaven’s Junior Session are immeasurable. Her leadership has touched the lives of countless students, shaping them not only as musicians but as individuals. We are thrilled to welcome Kenny Bean into this role, knowing he will build upon Marty’s legacy with his unique talents and perspective.”
The Kinhaven community looks forward to celebrating Marty’s remarkable achievements and welcoming Kenny to his new position during the upcoming Junior Session. Further details about opportunities to connect with both leaders will be shared in the coming months.