President's Comments

2008-2009 -- “A Season of Choice”

Welcome, friends, to the 41st season of the Longview Symphony. This season is unique to the orchestra in that it is truly a “Season of Choice.”   Much of the programming that you will enjoy this season are “People’s Choice” selections—compositions that you, our patrons, submitted as being music that you would like to hear. The list of major compositions compiled from the People’s Choice questionnaires was, indeed, interesting, varied and filled with quality compositions by major composers, so enjoy your musical programming!

This is also a Season of Choice in that we, the Longview Symphony League, are aggressively recruiting financial support from our patrons, area businesses and philanthropic societies, asking them to choose to support the Symphony by increased donations so that we may continue to provide this treasure of the Longview Symphony.   One of the choices that you can make is to increase your contribution to the Longview Symphony. Production costs are ever increasing and ticket sales cover only 25% of our expenses.   The professional orchestra that you see on the stage comes at a high, but worthwhile, cost.

An evening at the Symphony is a wonderful event. A wise friend told me recently that “When we surround ourselves with beauty, it enriches our souls.” The Longview Symphony concerts are indeed beautiful, soul-enriching events. Our venue, the Belcher Performance Center, is an architectural jewel here in Longview. The orchestra on stage is not only beautiful to hear but also beautiful to see—musicians in formal attire and a conductor with superb conducting skills. The most beautiful aspect of the evening, however, is you, our patrons, attending with friends and family.

We are thankful that you have chosen to share this Season of Choice with us.   Please make a choice to bring a friend, make an additional donation and, especially, enjoy the music.