To Our Music Supporters:
How would you like to be a part of the future history of Fredericksburg?
That’s right – future history. History is being made right now with the establishment of Fredericksburg Community Orchestras – the first time Fredericksburg has had an orchestra in more than 60 years.
According to Kenn Knopp, co-founder of the Friends of Van der Stucken, author, and lecturer on the history of the settlers in the area, organized music has always played a valued role in the lives of local citizens.
“Fredericksburg always had people in chamber music, recitals, and plays, and any number of orchestras,” Knopp said. “Saturday night was dedicated to public dancing, and Sunday afternoon was for chamber music.”
Fredericksburg Community Orchestras (FCO) is bringing back that community spirit.
Theresa Britt began planning this group even before she arrived in Fredericksburg in the summer of 2010. She had the vision of building up a true community orchestra in this historic town. With the help of interested community members, we are well on our way.
- FCO has acquired its 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization status
- Theresa is training dozens of students in the Suzuki Method
- FCO has performed at the Van der Stucken festival and other concerts
- A chamber ensemble has performed with the Fredericksburg Chorale
- Collaboration with the Fredericksburg Music Club to host a Master Class
- FCO ran its first Summer Strings program
This is only the beginning. To move forward, we need you.
Here are some reasons we need your support:
- To restart history, as Fredericksburg has always supported community music.
- To add another artistic offering to the community – along with our growing number of art galleries, wineries, shops, gourmet restaurants, and historic sites.
- To nurture a new generation of performing musicians, who participate in lessons, ensembles, workshops, and the orchestra itself.
It is our ardent desire and belief that the Fredericksburg Community Orchestra will grow in quantity and quality.
Since “Community” is our middle name, we want you to be a part of this.
There are several opportunities to help:
- Time
Volunteer to help with events and hospitality - Equipment & Material
Opportunities to help us acquire equipment and instruments, such as music stands, chairs, and orchestra scores - Leadership
Opportunities to serve on the board - Funding
You have several convenient ways to become a Charter Supporter.
Bach Level – $1000
Beethoven Level – $500
Mozart Level – $250
Brahms Level – $100
Haydn Level – $50
Any amount is welcome and will be put to proper use.
This can be individual, a business, or a memorial. Acknowledgement of your support will be posted on our web site and included in our programs.
You can give to us directly via paypal:
Our Purpose
Officially, the purpose of Fredericksburg Community Orchestras is to promote string education in Fredericksburg and surrounding communities. We are doing that with string ensembles, Suzuki Group Classes for youth ages 3 to 12, a Community Ensemble for ages 12 and up, a Chamber Ensemble of semi-professional players for special events, and Summer Strings camp.
Our players range in age from 12 to 75. All are joined in their love of playing and sharing music with the community.
FCO will also offer scholarships for local music training, for high school seniors who go on to higher education, and for students studying abroad.
Fredericksburg Community Orchestra is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. This means that the FCO can apply for grants and solicit tax-exempt donations to support its mission of the advancement of string education in the Hill Country.
Anyone interested in supporting FCO with donations, instruments and equipment, rehearsal space, volunteer time, or who wish to perform, can find information online at www.fredericksburgorchestra.com, via email at info@fredericksburgorchestra.com, or by calling (806) 549-2483.
Mailing address:
Fredericksburg Community Orchestras
PO BOX 1132
Fredericksburg TX 78624
Thank you for keeping the music playing into the future.
With best wishes,
Phil Houseal, President