Dear Music Lovers and Supporters,

Warm greetings to you, esteemed members of our community. Wasn’t the Beaufort Symphony Orchestra’s  “Passionate Romance” concert wonderful? And wasn’t piano soloist Adria Ye performing the Schumann Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 54, magical? If you missed it, we will post a link within the next few weeks.

Today, I bring forth a message of optimism and determination concerning our beloved Beaufort Symphony Orchestra. As individuals who cherish the cultural richness the BSO brings to our lives, I am reaching out to share an important message about our current financial challenge. As we approach the end of our current fiscal year (May 31, 2024), we face a daunting reality, which is a $40,000 shortfall that threatens the continuity of our beloved Symphony, which has been an important pillar of our community’s spirit and artistic heritage for 38 years.

An anonymous donor has generously offered to match donations with a 1:2 ratio, that is, one dollar matched for every two dollars donated. Another anonymous donor has accepted the challenge and will do the same. Combined, these offers present the Orchestra with the opportunity to raise $30,000, close the BSO’s financial gap by 75% and brighten the future of the BSO for one more year. But, this requires each of you to dig deep within yourself and contribute what you're able to offer. If everyone who attended the concert donated $200, we could cover the $40,000 shortfall.

In reality, the BSO faces this challenge each year because ticket sales account for less than 45% of the BSO’s annual budget. For the BSO to survive, donations must account for more than 55% of its budget each year. Nevertheless, these donation-matching offers give the Orchestra more time to secure future donors.

I invite you to join me in this crucial endeavor. Your support is invaluable. Together, we can ensure that the BSO continues to inspire generations with its enchanting melodies and nurture the talents of local and young musicians.

I appeal to you to make a donation today and become the lifeline that sustains the music we cherish and upholds the musical vibrancy of our community. Since we announced this shortfall at the March concert, we have received $3,100, which are eligible toward our match challenge.

In closing, I am deeply grateful for your support and dedication to the Beaufort Symphony Orchestra.

Thank you for your consideration and generosity.

Greta Sandberg
President, BSO Board of Directors