Noteworthy

Tell us a bit about where your passion for classical music began.

As a kid, I was introduced to classical music by my elementary school teachers and through the violin lessons my parents enrolled me in. Each year, my dad would take me to a handful of Kitchener–Waterloo Symphony concerts, and I loved every one. Music has since become a fun and rewarding lifelong hobby. I love discovering new pieces, taking friends to concerts, and visiting orchestras around the world when I travel for work. I never saw myself as an “artsy” person, but music has become a terrific outlet to decompress and balance other parts of my life. An evening concert always feels like a special outing in the middle of the week!

How has being both a donor and a volunteer shaped your view of supporting the arts?

I’d encourage anyone to get involved! After watching my hometown orchestra go through bankruptcy, I learned how much arts funding in North America depends on donations. Supporting the TSO felt like a meaningful way to play my small part in sustaining the outstanding programming they offer.

Among non-profit organizations, I’ve been especially impressed by how much the TSO does for the community. There are wonderful community programs, diverse concerts, strong support for Canadian artists and new compositions, and excellent donor benefits. The TSOUNDCHECK program is also an amazing, low-cost way for young people to experience the Orchestra and introduce their friends. I’ve really enjoyed meeting new people as an IC Ambassador—there’s a great sense of pride in what we do, and volunteering feels just as important as donating!

Interested in supporting the TSO or joining the Impresarios Club? Email us at giving@TSO.CA or call 416.598.5311. You can also donate by phone or online at TSO.CA/Donate.