James Richard Rosenfield

Jim Rosenfield, President of MATA for 14 years (Music at the Anthology), philanthropist, and advertising executive, died on July 4, 2024 at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital in New York City from complications of prostate cancer. He was 78 years old.

Mr. Rosenfield's involvement with MATA, a New York organization dedicated to supporting and commissioning new music by emerging composers, reflected his passion for the arts. On MATA's Board of Directors for over 14 years, he actively contributed to the organization's mission and provided leadership to its initiatives.

Professionally, Jim Rosenfield was the founder and president of two advertising and marketing agencies that specialized in the use of direct mail, Rosenfield/Vinson Direct and later Rosenfield and Associates. He is the author of Financial Services Direct Marketing: Tactics, Techniques and Strategies, as well as numerous articles appearing in such journals as Marketing, and Direct Marketing. His expertise extended beyond his writings as he has taught courses in advertising and marketing at the University of Colorado and Ohio State University. Furthermore, he has shared his insights on direct marketing through lectures across the country and worldwide.

After retiring, Mr. Rosenfield utilized his marketing expertise on behalf of classical music organizations and young and emerging composers and musicians. In addition to MATA, he served on the following boards of directors until his death: Luna Composition Lab, a New York based organization which provides mentorship, education, and resources for young female, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming composers ages 13-18; Contemporaneous, a New York ensemble consisting of 25 musicians whose mission is to bring to life the most transformative music by living composers through performances, commissions, recordings and educational programs; and the Carlsbad Music Festival, based in San Diego, CA, which aims to engage and inspire local, national, and international communities of composers, performers, creators, and concert goers through world-class performances of adventurous music. His love of new music turned his home into a welcoming space for emerging arts organizations to connect with potential supporters. These gatherings were characterized by a relaxed atmosphere, often featuring intimate living-room performances. Notably, these events showcased unconventional elements and performers, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

Rosenfield was known for commissioning new musical compositions, including works by acclaimed composers such as Gabriela Ortiz, Lisa Bielawa, and Missy Mazzoli. Mazzoli, who was recently commissioned by the Metropolitan Opera, spoke highly of Rosenfield's profound influence on the musical scene, expressing her gratitude for his unwavering support and friendship.

Rosenfield's legacy as a patron of the arts will continue to inspire and shape the cultural landscape of New York City and beyond. His passion for music and his dedication to supporting emerging artists left an indelible mark on the lives of countless musicians and music enthusiasts.

Jim was a soft spoken force of nature. He touched and changed so many lives in a positive way. He loved and was loved by so many. He encouraged and mentored young people, many of whom considered him a father figure. Everyone who met him, young and old, fell in love with him.

Mr. Rosenfield was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on August 25, 1945 to Herman and Catherine Rosenfield. He attended Walnut Hills High School in Cincinnati and Columbia University in New York. He is survived by his wife Israella F Mayeri, his brother Daniel Rosenfield, sister Janice Ash, brother Robert Rosenfield, nephews, grand nephews, grand nieces and many cousins.

A Memorial/Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024 at 1 p.m. at the SGI-USA Queens Buddhist Center, 40-36 24th Street, Long Island City, N.Y. 11101.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Luna Composition Lab (lunacompositionlab.org), Contemporaneous (https://www.contemporaneous.org/donate-today) or the MATA Festival (matafestival.org).