In Wednesday’s (1/26) Post-Standard (Syracuse, New York), Melinda Johnson writes, “Almost seven months after averting closure in July, Syracuse Symphony Orchestra again is in financial distress. Without $375,000 to meet its payroll and expenses by Feb. 4, the SSO will be left with no choice but to end its 2010-2011 season four months early. … Once the orchestra clears that financial hurdle, it must raise $445,000 for March operating expenses and a total of $1.75 million to finish its 2010-2011 concert season. The orchestra’s management and board chair announced its financial straits and an appeal for public support for its goal of $1.75 million with an immediate need for $375,000, during a Post-Standard editorial board meeting Tuesday. A public fundraising campaign—’Keep the music playing’—is being launched today. … Government, business and education leaders have been enlisted to spread the message in print, TV and radio public service announcements. … The orchestra has been operating with a $6.9 million budget in 2010-2011, down from $7.4 million for the 2009-2010 season. Since August, an ‘angel investor’ provided a lifeline of cash to help the SSO with its budget gaps for the current season and to encourage other donors.”
Posted January 26, 2011
