ALMetro360 July 2018

Inaugural Dinner Marks Beginning of New Group: MSO Philharmonic Society E VEN THOUGH THERE ’ S ALREADY APPRECIATION AND SUPPORT FOR M ONTGOMERY ’ S S YMPHONY O RCHESTRA , NOW THERE ’ S ANOTHER LEVEL TO SHOW PRIDE FOR OUR TALENTED , VOLUNTEER MUSICIANS . im Klingler, longtime Symphony Board Member, had a vision to establish a Philhar- monic Society. Its raison d’etre would be to honor individuals and organizations that go above and beyond in supporting musical art through the Montgomery Symphony… those who contribute at the Tone Poem level or higher. Mr. Klingler was joined by another longtime board member, Lisa Capell, who has also been an integral part of the MSO Association for untold years. She, too, realized the need for a group interested in making a deeper commitment. Both Jim and Lisa have dedicated themselves to help make the MSO what it is today. And that is a First-Class Orchestra — a cel- ebrated group of the Southeastern United States, as well as an or- ganization devoted to giving young people musical education, and free concerts open to all people of the River Region. At its inaugural dinner on May 4, the Society recognized past contributors for gifts of time and financial resources that exceed traditional expectations. It was agreed this event would become an annual celebration of supporters, for those of past and future com- mitments. Mr. Klingler addressed the Society, first lauding the accomplish- ments of Maestro Thomas Hinds. He called attention to the fact that the acclaimed conductor has been with the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra for 35 years now… and counting. Jim praised the many orchestral performances the Symphony offers to the Montgomery area. In addition to its regularly sched- uled four classical concerts, the MSO gives back to the community through free programs: Jubilee Pops Concerts held at the State Archives Building every Memorial Day, and Broadway Under the Stars Concerts, held in late summer annually on the grounds of the Shakespeare Festival Theatre. He recognized how the Montgomery Symphony League partners with Symphony Orchestra programs. League volunteers use the Broadway event, annually, as its sole fund-raising project. A seated dinner can be purchased by anyone who would like to dine at ta- bles directly in front of the orchestra. All proceeds from the benefit are used to fund music education activities for area youth, and adults. One major destination for these funds is the Montgomery Youth Orchestra. The ultra-talented group presents two public concerts each year. The Blount-Slawson Young Artist Competition is another League project. The nationally recognized event attracts music stu- dents, grades seven through 12, from all regions of the U.S. It pro- vides aspiring musicians recognition and an opportunity to compete for monetary prizes. The winner also performs with the Orchestra at its final concert of the season. Sixth-grade concerts are a real favorite to excited students in the River Region. Annually, the Orchestra opens eyes of wonder to the world of classical music, as well as other pieces played by instru- SEEN............................................................................................................................................ J MSO Executive Director Blake Thomas and wife Tiffany Amy & Al Steineker Charlotte & Joe Mussafer 80 AL/ Metro 360 www.almetro360.com