In Monday’s (3/12) Birmingham News (Alabama), Michael Huebner writes, “Alabama Symphony contributors are feeling a little more comfortable about donating to their favorite musical cause, says ASO Executive Director Curt Long, thanks to an improving stock market and a growing sense of financial security. ‘There were periods when people were so uncertain about what the future was bringing that they were hesitant to make commitments even as the market was recovering,’ Long said. ‘I think people are feeling a sense that things have stabilized and that another terrifying downturn is not on the horizon.’ ASO has set a 2012-13 operating budget of $6.8 million, about the same as the past two seasons but down from $7.3 million in 2009-10. Also holding steady is its endowment, at about $12 million. … More good financial news concerns the ASO’s appearance at the Spring for Music festival in New York. Although the orchestra is guaranteed at least $50,000 from box office receipts, it must raise its own funds for travel and other costs. As of last week, the trip is fully funded after raising $170,000. Donations from Protective Life and the Linn-Henley Charitable Trust, individual gifts, contributions built into tour packages and fundraising events helped to reach the goal.”
Posted March 14, 2012
