San Francisco-based Janet Cowperthwaite was the manager of the Kronos
Quartet and the founding Executive Director of the non-profit Kronos
Performing Arts Association. For 43 years she played a key role in the
success of the Grammy-winning group and its organization. Her
responsibilities included touring, artistic planning, an annual festival,
fundraising, marketing, and more. She oversaw the commissioning of 1,100
new works and the production of 75+ acclaimed recordings. Cowperthwaite
was instrumental in creating many innovative programs including “Kronos
Fifty for the Future,” a free library of 50 new commissioned works. She has
served on various boards of directors and is the recipient of several
awards.

Nicki Sekhar is a Brooklyn-based composer, arranger, and vocalist, who has worked with ensembles such as Hypercube, The Rhythm Method, and Dither. Growing up, Nicki sang in Uniting Voices Chicago and in 2020, with UVC’s nomination, they were named to the Rising Star Honor Roll for Music by the City of Chicago. In 2020, they wrote, recorded, and produced their first solo album, Cerebrum, which combines electronic and pop styles with contemporary classical techniques. Nicki’s sophomore album, The Juniper Suite was recorded in 2024 and premiered live at The Garage, supported by an award from The Presser Foundation. In addition to Luna Composition Lab, Nicki currently works with Brooklyn Youth Chorus and New Amsterdam Records. They hold a degree in Music from New York University.

Alyssa Kayser-Hirsh is an arts administrator and musician based in New York City. She has experience in artistic organizations of all sizes, with a particular focus in project management, content development, and youth programming. In addition to her work with Luna Composition Lab, she currently works in Digital Content & Engagement at Carnegie Hall. She has previously worked as a writer and educator, covering contemporary classical music for I CARE IF YOU LISTEN and teaching private voice lessons. Alyssa performs with Amor Artis. Originally from Amherst, MA, Alyssa is a graduate of Wellesley College, where she received degrees in Music and American Studies. In 2024 she completed her Master’s Degree in American Queer Women’s History at The Graduate Center, CUNY.