Meet the Staff
West Michigan Symphony Staff may be contacted at 231.726.3231 and the following extensions or info@westmichigansymphony.org:
Andy Buelow ext. 222
President/CEO
CEO since 2018, Andy has dedicated his professional life to revitalizing orchestras and building strong connections with patrons and communities. At WMS, he led the development of Strategic, DEI and Artistic frameworks to guide the organization’s mission delivery, inclusion and concert curation. He collaborated with Board leadership in revising and revitalizing governance and committee structures, expanded staffing in the areas of audience development and community engagement, and led a campaign that increased the endowment and reserves to $4.5 million. Previously he led the orchestras in Tacoma and Traverse City and was a marketing and PR administrator with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. Andy is an avocational keyboardist, an avid sailor and a Great Lakes historian. He and his wife Beth live in Muskegon and have a rustic cottage in the woods north of Traverse City.
Amanda Dykhouse
Music Librarian
Bio coming soon.
Megan James ext. 228
Marketing & Design Manager
A graduate of Kendall College of Art and Design, Megan thrives in the creative process—from early-stage research, collaboration, and brainstorming to crafting layouts and graphic elements. As Marketing & Design Manager, she serves as a full-service in-house creative agency, overseeing visual communications, publications, digital marketing, and more—all to support and elevate the WMS brand. Megan lives in Shelby with her husband Michael, their son Thomas, and two Beagles. Outside of work, you can find her reading thrillers, watching reality TV, catching up with friends over coffee, and taking Thomas on new adventures.
Karen Mueller O'Neill ext. 225
Vice President of Development & Marketing
Bio coming soon.
Maris Myers ext. 223
Patron Services Manager
Maris Myers' extensive passion for music and the arts has led to a lengthy career supporting arts organizations for over 40 years.
After taking education at Davenport College and ONU Maris began working for the Frauenthal Theater taking on various roles from Ticket Manager, Stage Manager, and Front of House Manager. She transitioned her career to the Grand Rapids Symphony and continued to fulfill her love of people and the arts by running the ticket office. Now back in Muskegon Maris holds the role of Patron Service Manager at the West Michigan Symphony.
Maris's commitment to the arts has extended to many volunteering roles with the St Cecilia Great Artist series, Summer Celebration Festival and Irish and Unity Festivals in Muskegon. She is a multi-instrumentalist, playing the cornet, baritone, saxophone, and piano, she enjoys playing the euphonium at Festival of the Trees and singing in church.
Gabe Slimko ext. 227 or 231.855.6010
Vice President of Operations & Orchestra
Bio coming soon.
Lisa Tabaczka ext. 229
Finance & Office Manager
Bio coming soon.
Karen Vander Zanden ext. 231
Vice President of Community Learning & Engagement
Bio coming soon.
