Ernie Toplis

Facilities Manager

Joined the Orchestra in 2011

Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA

Ernie oversees the day to day operations of the Beatrice Freidman Symphony Center. He previously worked for the Cincinnati Symphony and managed Music Hall. In addition, he has held positions with the Philadelphia Orchestra and Aspen Music Festival and School.  

As a musician, Ernie earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. His major instrument was trumpet. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the Air Force performing and working for over 20 years with the USAF Band in Washington DC.  

His first orchestral experience was playing the offstage brass in Respighi’s Pines of Rome. To this day, it is his favorite composition to listen to and perform. 

“It is very exciting to work for an organization with so much talent, on and off the stage. The Sarasota Orchestra’s potential is limitless.”