This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority

He didn't start in music, but that has become his lasting legacy so far on the Savannah area. Beginning with his work in the infant stages of the Savannah Philharmonic, David Pratt has left an imprint on the cultural scene in Savannah for a long time. After leaving for other jobs in California and Australia, Pratt is back in the Hostess City and tasked with leading the ship at the Savannah Music Festival, which is set to kick off its 30th season at the end of March. On this episode of Difference Makers, Pratt talks growing up in Australia, working in the film industry before shifting to music, his first impressions of Savannah and what fans can expect from the Savannah Music Festival both this year and beyond.

(6:35): Working in the film industry in Australia

(10:37): What caused the shift from movies to music?

(14:25): Joining up with the Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra

• Savannah Philharmonic executive director David Pratt leaving for job in Colorado (SMN, Dec. 3, 2013)
• To the next 10 years: Savannah Philharmonic celebrates first decade while looking to future (DoSavannah, Sept. 8, 2018)

(22:47): Pratt's new role with the Savannah Music Festival

• Savannah Music Festival hires new executive director ahead of 30th season (SMN, Aug. 17, 2018)

(29:09): Daniel Hope's departure and its impact on the festival

• Savannah Music Festival announces Daniel Hope's final season (SMN, Mar. 5, 2019)

(32:19): Previewing the 2019 Savannah Music Festival

• DoSavannah's coverage of the 2019 Savannah Music Festival

(39:39): What the Savannah Music Festival means to the city and what Pratt plans for in the future with the festival

Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.