SATURDAY STAFF STORIES:
Elleanna Stoner
Q: How long have you been with MCG Jazz?
A: I joined MCG Jazz just after Thanksgiving of 2023.
Q: Why did you join MCG Jazz?
A: After college I wanted to find a job environment that was welcoming. When I saw an opening with MCG Jazz, it stood out. I had worked alongside Marty and Renee through the Pittsburgh Playhouse for the summer series. I remember having a great impression of them, as well as the performances they presented. MCG Jazz felt like a lively, comfortable place and team from the moment I officially met everyone.
Q:What do you do at MCG Jazz?
A: I am the Patron Services Manager. I handle all things ticketing, merchandise, and day-to-day communications with patrons; I also get to help with marketing and social media. Although this is a very brief summary of my responsibilities, I get to be involved in many different projects and conversations with the rest of the MCG Jazz staff.
Q: Do you have a mentor? If so, tell us about them.
A: My mentor is Lindsay Lehman. She is the Events Manager for the Pittsburgh Playhouse and was my mentor senior year. I have a lot of respect for Lindsay and her work, as well as everything she taught me in my time working with her. She taught me valuable lessons about working as a woman in a high-stress and chaotic job environment. Lindsay was an invaluable resource in my education and work experience.
Q: What do you love most about what you do?
A: Getting to speak to patrons! I get to hear amazing first-hand stories and experiences I wouldn’t be able to hear from anyone else. Every person also has different taste, so it is very interesting and enjoyable to hear patron thoughts about performances.
Q: Tell us a surprising or a fun fact about you.
A: I am the oldest sibling by five years, and the only girl!
Q: What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
A: My biggest enjoyment in life is spending time with my loved ones and friends, as well as my cat. Beyond that, I enjoy exploring Pittsburgh and getting to know the different neighborhoods and what they have to offer and filling my life with the arts and nature in various ways.
Q: What type of jazz is your favorite to listen to/play?
A: I love a beautiful, well-trained voice. Etta Jones, Samara Joy, Emmaline, Laufey. I enjoy smooth jazz (especially Christmas music), as well as bebop.
Q: What is something that has surprised you about working at MCG Jazz?
A: Everyone here (staff, patrons, anyone that has something to do with Pittsburgh Jazz) is so close. Seeing just how much everyone knows one another is inspiring, and really shows just how much the arts and a supported community can bring people together.
Q: Who is an artist you want to see perform at MCG Jazz and why?
A: I feel extremely lucky to have gotten to experience some amazing concerts already, such as the Pasquale Grasso Trio and Kaki King. If I could bring anyone to see, I would bring back Samara Joy to be able to see her