In Thursday’s (6/9) Oregonian (Portland), Elliot Njus writes, “The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra says it won’t make it to its 33rd season unless it can raise $100,000 by the end of the month. The symphony—the largest performing arts organization in Southwest Washington—relies on donations to cover its costs, the majority of which go toward paying its staff and musicians. But donations have slowed over the past three years, and the symphony has burned through its emergency reserves. ‘It’s just at the point where it’s caught up to us,’ said Scott Milam, chairman of the symphony’s board of directors. Milam said its ticket sales have stayed strong, and nearly 6,000 people attended a show this season. But tickets cover only 20 percent of the group’s revenue. The $100,000—a tall order, considering the symphony brought in just over $500,000 in contributions, ticket sales and other revenue last season—would keep the symphony’s doors open though the summer and into the next concert season. … In the meantime, next season’s concerts are likely to be scaled back, including more chamber-sized performances that are cheaper to put on and generate more revenue.” The group presents five classics programs per season. “The symphony is also slashing its administrative staff to one full-time and one part-time employee, reducing salary costs by 50 percent.”
Posted June 9, 2011
