Fort Smith Symphony hosts sponsor appreciation event
by October 7, 2011 7:30 am 88 views
story and photos by Joel Rafkin
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About 50 major sponsors of the Fort Smith Symphony gathered at the home of Jim and Peggy Hadley on Thursday (Oct. 6) for a party held to show appreciation for their contributions. More than 100 invitations were sent out.
A string quartet of symphony members Lori Fay, Karen Jeter, Anitra Fay and Barbara Godette performed classical music to entertain guests as they mingled, imbibed from the open bar and helped themselves to hors d’oeuvres catered by board members and Gourmet Gallery.
The symphony relies heavily on sponsorship to keep the music playing. John Jeter, music director and conductor, said only 20 percent of the operating budget is generated from ticket sales and this is not atypical for a symphony. The remainder comes from individual and corporate sponsorship, grants and contributions.
"I’m amazed at how Fort Smith and the region — Sallisaw, Poteau, Greenwood, Paris, the whole region — support the symphony. Obviously they know a good thing when they see it," said Sandi Sanders, director of development for the symphony.
According to the symphony’s website, a contribution of $100 or more is required for an invitation to the donor appreciation party. Contributors of at least $1,000 earn recognition as members of the Conductor’s Circle and have their names printed in the program and are invited to private receptions during concert intermissions. Those contributing at least $1,500 become Chair Sponsors and enjoy all the benefits of Conductor’s Circle sponsorship plus their name associated with a particular musician and a dinner with the musicians at the annual Chair Sponsorship Event. Jeter said the orchestra has 68 chair sponsors and the goal is 80.
Some give out of benevolence while others may see a business opportunity.
A factor for contributing is the quality of life/place issue with Fort Smith. To be a participant and be recognized as such in enhancing something of this caliber is something people really want to be associated with, said Dr. Peter Fleck, president-elect.
Companies or individuals may see sponsorship from a marketing perspective. The symphony’s brochure, website and other visible advertising helps them be recognized, Jeter added.
Jeter said each year there is an underlying theme to the symphony’s season. This year the focus is on world-class guest artists. Another twist is coming in April. The symphony is tackling a first for any orchestra: The History of Rock and Roll.
Education is an important component of the symphony. Symphony in the Schools travels to more than 40 schools in the Fort Smith region and performs live music and music education for 5th grade students who might not otherwise be exposed to classical music.
