In Thursday’s (10/4) Houston Chronicle (Texas), Steven Brown reports, “The Houston Symphony racked up its third consecutive balanced budget during its 2012-13 season, the orchestra says, and the organization’s sales and fundraising have set a series of records so far this season. Last season’s annual fund drive brought in more than $10 million, making it the most successful in the orchestra’s history, the group reported in a financial update. Contributions for special events and other purposes pushed the total to $14.3 million, helping the orchestra balance its expenses of $27.7 million. The report also includes sales and attendance figures for this fiscal year, which began June 1. Some highlights: The Summer in the City concerts totaled $563,000 in single-ticket sales, a record. The free Day of Music on July 13, a first-time event that featured an array of Houston performing groups, drew 10,000 people…. The opening-night concert featuring soprano Renée Fleming totaled $207,000 in single-ticket sales…. Subscription sales to new subscribers so far this season are 70 percent ahead of the same point last season. Marie Taylor Bosarge, a member of the orchestra’s board of trustees, pledged a gift of $2 million across three years. The orchestra projects this season’s expenses at $30.7 million.”
Posted October 8, 2013
