WMS 2023-24 Annual Report by West Michigan Symphony

Daring, Diverse & Defining

We are a catalyst for a musicinfused West Michigan: leading, facilitating, connecting and collaborating with the community to stimulate cultural vibrancy, inclusivity and pride of place.

MISSION

West Michigan Symphony connects and enriches our diverse community through the transformative power of music. We fulfill this primarily through three core offerings:

• Professional, live symphonic performances in a welcoming environment

• Inspired small ensemble performances in an immersive live listening room

• Learning activities that enrich the lives of children and adults through exploration, participation and performance

2023-2024 SEASON: DARING, DIVERSE AND DEFINING

Broadway diva Capathia Jenkins. Syrian composer-improviser Kinan Azmeh. Contemporary urban pianist BLKBOK. Violinist Chee Yun’s "The Seasons Reimagined." Aldo López-Gavilán’s fresh take on Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue From start to finish, West Michigan Symphony’s 2023-2024 Season at the Frauenthal and The Block was daring, diverse and defining.

Live music brings people together to share beauty. People are hungry for authentic experiences of community. At WMS, we strive to provide a welcoming, inclusive gathering space in the heart of Muskegon’s revitalized downtown. We went all out to make the 2023-2024 Season irresistible to subscribers, to attract new single ticket buyers, and to make WMS the most vibrant, audience friendly orchestra in the U.S.! And the community responded: 12,000 people attended concerts, an increase of nearly 20% over pre-pandemic levels.

In addition, a growing number of children and young people had the opportunity to explore, participate and perform music via WMS Community Music Encounters programs. A collaboration with Muskegon Area District Library brought Click Clack Moosic—WMS’s unique storytime series for 3-8 year olds—to nearly 800 children at multiple library branches. In its second year, Tune Up expanded to all three Muskegon Public Schools. Enrollment in WMS youth ensembles was at a record 120 students. An audience of 4,500 students, teachers and parents from schools in Muskegon, Ottawa, Newaygo, Kent, Mason and Oceana counties attended the Link Up concert in May.

Community support was stronger than ever, including several unprecedented gifts. In the fall, we announced the Jeffrey Lake Johnson Endowed Principal Horn Chair, followed in the spring by the Frank E. and Flora M. Johnson Endowed Principal Bass Chair. We also received a significant grant, restricted toward the Tune Up program in Muskegon Public Schools, from the City of Muskegon’s ARPA fund. Finally, we are grateful to Mike and Kay Olthoff for all their support, and especially the $100,000 matching gift challenge, which inspired stretch giving from so many.

Thank you for being a partner with your WMS in eliminating barriers to participation in music throughout the community. You are a catalyst for a music-infused West Michigan!

Sincerely,

Susan Cloutier Crain Chairperson

Scott Speck Music Director

Andy Buelow President/CEO

ARTISTIC HIGHLIGHTS

Aretha: A Tribute

Straight from the stages of Broadway came the dynamic duo of Capathia Jenkins and Darryl Williams for a star-studded tribute to the Queen of Soul. Kicking off the season, the pair lit up the Frauenthal with all of Aretha Franklin’s greatest hits, including such iconic favorites as “Respect,” “A Natural Woman,” “Chain of Fools” and “Amazing Grace.”

Acoustic Guitar Ninja

Called “jaw-dropping” by Audiocast Magazine, guitarist Trace Bundy was all that and more at his October debut performance at The Block. Known as the “acoustic guitar Ninja,” Bundy combined harmonics, looping and multiple capos with his unique banter and stage presence to deliver an unforgettable live concert.

Scheherazade and More

Hailing from Damascus, clarinetist extraordinaire Kinan Azmeh brought his unique talents and style as soloist, composer and improviser to West Michigan in November. His Suite for Improviser and Orchestra transported the audience to an entirely new sonic realm. Together with Jennifer Higdon’s Blue Cathedral, Azmeh’s music was somehow both a contrast and complement to Rimsky-Korsakov’s beloved Scheherazade, which followed during the second half.

The Seasons Reimagined

This groundbreaking February performance combined the Italian Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons with Argentinian Astor Piazzolla’s Four Seasons of Buenos Aires Originally slated for the spring of 2020, the program was video-recorded when the pandemic brought live public gatherings to an unprecedented halt. The memory of the resulting virtual performance—the first following a statewide three-month shelter-at-home—remained vivid. At the time, we resolved to bring Chee-Yun back to perform it live. She did not disappoint.

BLKBOK at The Block

One of the most inspiring performances at The Block in years featured Detroit contemporary pianist BLKBOK in March. His stage name is a nod to the legendary J.S. Bach and an embodiment of the diverse influences that have shaped his artistic identity: from classical to hip-hop. In addition to wowing Block audiences, the artist shared his vision and talents with students at area high schools. It was an opportunity for young people to hear this unique artist play and talk about how music opens doors and provides hope. The students were invited to be his special guests that night at The Block.

Rhapsody in Blue Anniversary

Aldo López-Gavilán’s season-closing performance of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, during its centennial year, featured the artist’s spontaneous percussion intro and improvised cadenza. The Rhapsody was preceded by an orchestral work, Guaguancó, by Guido López-Gavilán—the pianist’s father and Cuba’s most noted living composer. In a departure from custom, Scott Speck chose to end the concert (and the season) with the Rhapsody and this remarkable soloist center stage, instead of the more customary orchestral grand slam.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Susan Cloutier Crain, Chairperson

Retired Executive Director, Disability Network

Kate Kesteloot Scarbrough, Vice Chairperson

Retired Executive Director, Mediation & Restorative Services

Bob Garretson, Treasurer CEO, Embark Financial Partners

Merica S. Dobry, Secretary Senior Council, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Melisa Baker

Human Resources Manager, Webb Chemical Service Corporation

Larry Fife

Retired Infotainment Director, Siemens and Continental Automotive

Amy Hosford

General Manager, KN Literary Arts

ARTISTIC STAFF

Scott Speck, Music Director

Angela Corbin, Debut & Premier Strings Director

Lauren Garza, Tune Up Program Manager & Lead Teaching Artist

Beth Slimko, Children’s Choir Director

Joshua Zallar, Tune Up Teaching Artist

Juan Paternina Paez, Tune Up Teaching Artist

Donna Joyce Advancement Director, DOOR International

Stacy Mellema, CPA Shareholder, Hungerford

Jason Olthoff Vice President of Sales, Nichols

Emma Peterson Director of Philanthropy, Trinity Health

Jennifer Ross City Clerk, Muskegon Heights

Ryan Sterkenburg CTFA®, CISP®

Senior Wealth Administrator, West Shore Bank

Tom Trzaska Director of Strategic Technology, RENK

Bios of each board member may be found at westmichigansymphony.org/learn-more/board-of-directors

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Andy Buelow, President/CEO

Amanda Dykhouse, Music Librarian

Karen Mueller O’Neill, VP of Development & Marketing

Megan James, Marketing & Design Manager

Maris Myers, Patron Services Manager

Gabe Slimko, VP of Operations & Orchestra

Lisa Tabaczka, Finance & Office Manager

Karen Vander Zanden, VP of Community Learning & Engagement

STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK

PILLAR I ARTISTIC VIBRANCY

PILLAR II LEARNING

PILLAR III COMMUNITY

PILLAR IV AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT

PILLAR V FUND DEVELOPMENT

PILLAR VI INFRASTRUCTURE

• Plan Programming that speaks to people at all levels of familiarity with the music

• Transform concerts into memory-making events

• Eliminate barriers to participation in music for all the community’s youth

• Expand geographic reach to underserved areas of West Michigan

• Develop adult programs that deepen music appreciation and participation

• Build an organizational culture that fosters diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging

• Expand relationships and relevance through strategic collaborations

• Expand organizational visibility and reach; cultivate new audiences

• Build audience loyalty, sense of community and pride of place

• Expand and diversify donor base

• Build lasting, committed relationships with donors

• Supplement annual funding with multi-year, estate and endowment giving

• Invest in a motivated, effective and collaborative volunteer and staff team

• Protect and optimize venues and staging spaces

• Refine and optimize Business Model

WMS PRINCIPAL MUSICIANS

JESÚS LINÁREZ Concertmaster

MARK PORTOLESE Associate Principal – Violin 2

ALICIA GREGORIAN SAWYERS Principal – Cello

ASAKO FURUOYA Principal – Oboe

EDWARD HICKMAN Principal – Trombone

GENE HAHN Associate Concertmaster

CARMEN ABELSON Assistant Principal – Violin 2

IGOR CETKOVIC Associate Principal – Cello

HOLDEN Principal – Clarinet

RILEY LINDSEY Principal – Tuba

ROBINSON Assistant Concertmaster

ZIRALDO Principal – Viola

CAMERON SLAUGH Assistant Principal – Cello

ROBBINS Principal – Bassoon

TAYLOR Principal – Timpani

ADAM LIEBERT Assistant Principal – Violin 1

BOELZNER Associate Principal – Viola

ROBERT JOHNSON Principal – Bass

CLIFTON-O’DONNELL Principal – Horn

BECK Principal – Percussion

Principal – Violin 2

Assistant Principal – Viola

MARIE BROWN Principal – Flute

Principal – Trumpet

JACIE

ARTURO

REBECCA

JASON BUTLER

PAUL

BILL BAXTRESSER

JONATHAN

CHLOE

LEO

MATTHEW

SYLVIA NORRIS Principal – Harp

JILL

AMANDA DYKHOUSE

ORCHESTRA ROSTER

Music Director

Scott Speck

Mike & Kay Olthoff Endowed Chair

First Violin

Jesús Linárez concertmaster

Second Violin

Amanda Dykhouse principal

Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Endowed Chair

Mark Portolese assc. principal

Viola

Arturo Ziraldo principal

Cello

Alicia Gregorian Sawyers principal

Flute

Jill Marie Brown principal

Oboe

Asako Furuoya principal

Clarinet

Jonathan Holden principal

WELCOME NEW MUSICIANS

Rebecca Miller, Viola

Rebecca Miller has extensive orchestral experience including performances with Camerata Chicago, Elgin Symphony, Chicago Civic Orchestra, Ontario Philharmonic, Niagara Symphony, Symphony New Hampshire, and Boston Philharmonic, as well as with Chicago Summer Opera, San Diego’s Opera NEO, Boston Opera Collaborative, and Commonwealth Lyric Opera. She recently completed the National Academy Orchestra’s Mentorship Program in Ottawa, performing as part of the National Arts Centre Orchestra.

Rebecca has performed with Chicago Civic Orchestra Fellows and as a member of the Highwood Quartet, and was a top prize winner in the Glenn Gould School Chamber Music Competition. Outside the concert hall, she has been involved as both performer and organizer with Shelter Music Boston, bringing chamber music to underserved audiences throughout New England. Dedicated to music of the modern era, Rebecca has performed with the Esprit Orchestra, and appeared at Toronto’s 21C Festival, Creative Dialogue France, and the NEXT Festival of Emerging Artists. Rebecca holds degrees from Northwestern University, Glenn Gould School, and the Boston Conservatory.

Carlos Lozano, Viola

Born in Veracruz, Mexico, Carlos Lozano attended Andrews University in Michigan, where he studied under Carla Trynchuk, completing a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance. While in college, he started viola lessons and having found his love for the viola, went on to Western Michigan University, where he completed a Masters in Viola Performance under Igor Fedotov. He is currently completing a Masters in Orchestral Studies at Roosevelt University, studying under Larry Neuman, Li-Kuo Chang, Igor Fedotov and Roger Chase.

In addition to WMS, Carlos is a member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and the Southwest Michigan Symphony. He has performed as a guest with the Artosphere Festival, Kalamazoo, Charlotte, Jacksonville and Fort Worth orchestras.

In his free time, Carlos likes to play outdoor sports such as soccer, volleyball and biking, and loves going to the beach during summer.

Nick De Laurentis, Associate Principal Bass

A Southern California native, Nick attended DePaul University in Chicago, studying double bass under Alexander Hanna of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. He went on to receive his master’s degree from Northwestern University under the tutelage of Andrew Raciti of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.

Nick won the Associate Principal Bass position with WMS in late 2024. He is the Assistant Principal Bass for the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra and the Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra. Other notable engagements include performances with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Quad Cities Symphony Orchestra, and his time as a member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago.

Nick has attended the Fresh Inc Festival and spent two summers as a fellow in the Lucerne Festival Contemporary Orchestra. Nick teaches privately and enjoys honing his skills as an electric bassist, composer, and audio engineer.

Brett Armstrong, Bass

Brett Armstrong grew up in the Grand Rapids area, attended Western Michigan University for his Bachelor of Music degree, and University of Colorado for his Master of Music degree. While he lived in Denver he enjoyed playing as a substitute on many concerts with the Colorado Symphony, as well as being principal of the Fort Collins Symphony, the Greeley Philharmonic, and the Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra. During his work on a doctoral degree, Brett also played as a section bassist of the Boulder Philharmonic and the Denver Ballet. In his spare time, Brett loves reading and using looper pedals and Ableton Live along with his bass to make improvised music.

Cole Sheffer, Bass

Cole Sheffer began his musical journey in Purcellville, Virginia, picking up the bass at age 12 after being fascinated by the rich, resonant sounds of the instrument. In his youth, Cole performed a wide range of styles including classical, jazz and rock music. Currently Cole is pursuing a Master of Music in Performance at Michigan State University, where he studies under Kevin Brown. Cole completed his Bachelor of Music at James Madison University under Sam Suggs. In addition to WMS, Cole also holds a position with the Flint Symphony and has performed with the South Bend Symphony. As a dedicated educator, Cole serves as a sectional coach and private instructor across Michigan, working with students from middle school to collegiate levels. His summer festival appearances include the Mostly Modern Music Festival, Brevard Jazz Institute, and Sewanee Summer Music Festival. Away from the bass, Cole maintains an active lifestyle through weightlifting, running and yoga. A passionate trainer, Cole enjoys working with fellow musicians to promote movement to enhance performance and practice.

Kai-Chun Chang, Trumpet

Kai-Chun Chang, born in Taipei Taiwan, graduated from Taipei National University of the Arts, Roosevelt University. He won the third trumpet position in WMS in November 2024. He is also an associate member of Civic Orchestra of Chicago, regular member of Wheaton Municipal Band, and and studying for a post-graduate certificate at at DePaul University with Prof. Stephen Burns, Esteban Batallan, and Chad McCullough.

He developed a strong connection with the trumpet after joining the school's wind band in elementary school, where he began his initial training under the guidance of Ms. Hsin-Yi Chen. In high school, he joined the Jianguo High School Marching Band, where intensive training led him to pursue music as a career. That same year, he was admitted to Taipei National University of the Arts, studying under Prof. Shih-Ping Deng.

During his university years, he actively participated in various events and competitions both domestically and internationally. In 2016, he advanced to the semi-finals in the Brass Quintet category at the Jeju International Brass Competition and frequently collaborated with the Taipei Symphony Orchestra. In 2020, he went to Roosevelt University in Chicago to pursue a master's degree, studying with Prof. Mark Ridenour, Esteban Batallan, and Neal Berntsen.

COMMUNITY MUSIC ENCOUNTERS

Link Up gives students of all abilities the opportunity to work toward a common goal and create music in a friendly, safe, and forgiving context.

– LINK UP TEACHER 2024 –

Through Link Up I learned that music is really cool— and maybe I can play like that when I am older!

– LINK UP STUDENT 2024 –

“It’s such a full sound— and it just surrounds you. It feels so good to be a part of something bigger than you.”

– PREMIER STRINGS MEMBER ELLA POTTS –

LINK UP

More than 65,000 elementary students from six counties—Muskegon, Ottawa, Oceana, Newaygo, Mason and Kent—have taken a transformational musical journey courtesy of West Michigan Symphony’s Link Up over the past 20 years.

The Weill Music Institute at Carnegie Hall developed the groundbreaking Link Up curriculum, first introduced nationally in 2004 by West Michigan Symphony (WMS) and a handful of other orchestras. With the Carnegie partnership now entering its third decade, parents who participated in grade school are experiencing Link Up alongside their own children!

A recent addition is the Link Up String Quartet, which gives schools a tantalizing foretaste of the soon to be experienced live symphony. The program culminates at the Frauenthal Center in spring, where students “perform” on their recorders along with the full orchestra.

Under the theme The Orchestra MOVES, the 2024 Link Up class learned how music moves within the listener and through the orchestra in such repertoire as Strauss’s The Blue Danube and Bizet’s Carmen. Over 4,000 students, teachers and community supporters attended three back to back concerts in May that linked the classroom to the concert hall—and the concert hall to Carnegie Hall!

DEBUT & PREMIER STRINGS

With enrollment topping 50, membership was at an all-time high for the combined Debut and Premier Strings during 2023-2024. The size was big enough to necessitate scheduling separate rehearsal times for the two string orchestras, both of which meet weekly at The Block.

Students in Debut Strings have the opportunity to become part of Premier Strings, the advanced ensemble that director Angela Corbin added to the program back in 2020. Premier Strings members learn more challenging repertoire and mentor their younger counterparts. The groups presented their own stand-alone concert in November at MCC’s Overbrook Theater and with the Children’s Choir in spring.

Premier Strings students also make frequent public performances on their own, increasing community visibility of WMS’s Community Music Encounters and gaining valuable playing experience. As an example, the group appeared at the Reach the Forgotten jail ministry banquet last October 26 at Olivet Evangelical Free Church.

But the undoubted highlight of the year for Premier Strings players is when they perform side by side with WMS during the annual Link Up concerts. “They get to sit onstage with a professional orchestra. They get to spend time with Maestro Scott Speck,” enthuses Corbin. “It’s an amazing opportunity and one of my favorite aspects of the program.”

TUNE UP

Funded entirely by gifts raised during the 2020-2022 Play Your Part campaign, Tune Up is a beginning strings group lesson program—in partnership with IMPACT, Muskegon’s 21st Century Community Learning Center (CCLC)—for students in grades 3-8 in Muskegon Public Schools. Each student receives a new violin or viola and instruction from qualified teaching artists. Tune Up is tuition-free, removing any cost barrier; it takes place within the schools, removing any transportation barrier.

In its second year, Tune Up expanded into all three elementary schools and the middle school. WMS teaching artists have developed a close partnership with 21st CCLC IMPACT staff. Director Angela Johnson shared, “We just love Tune Up and what it provides our students. The Symphony’s exceptional teaching artists make learning music fun, engaging and exciting.”

MPS Superintendent Matthew Cortez stated: “Tune Up is becoming a valuable ‘feeder’ for our middle school orchestra by providing students with at least a full year of prior instruction. We anticipate that they will be playing at a more advanced level by the time they reach high school.”

In September, teaching artists Joshua Zallar and Juan Paternina Paez joined Lead Teaching Artist Lauren Garza to continue Tune Up’s expansion. “We are excited to be able to expand Tune Up with new students and additional class time,” enthused Karen Vander Zanden, WMS Vice President of Community Learning & Engagement. “It is all made possible by the support of our generous donors who understand the importance of music.”

“Tune Up instills a sense of confidence and pride that is especially important for the at risk youth we serve,” concluded Angela Johnson. “It includes benefits far beyond learning an instrument. Its ripple effects result in happier, healthier, more balanced children.”

CHILDREN’S CHOIR

During their 11th year the Children’s Choir took their voices to the concert hall and beyond.They celebrated the holiday season with their November concert at The Block; December saw their much-anticipated yearly appearance during "Home for the Holidays" and a guest performance at the inaugural Christkindl Market in downtown Grand Rapids. Later, they led the crowd in the National Anthem at a Lumberjacks Game at Trinity Health Arena.They ended the season in early May with a joint performance with Debut and Premier Strings at the Frauenthal Center that generated record attendance.

Director Beth Slimko shares why she loves her work: “Whether it’s a concert by WMS, the Children’s Choir or Debut Strings, people leave the performance more enriched, optimistic and hopeful about the future of the world—and the joy that is brought to the human spirit by shared musical experiences.”

CLICK CLACK MOOSIC

A partnership with Muskegon Area District Library and PNC Bank brought WMS’s unique Click Clack Moosic series to 800 children at library locations throughout the MADL system. "Clickity Clack Ho Ho Ho," the holiday edition, was presented four times in December with two sold out public concerts and two private performances for area preschool classes. Developed by WMS, with music by Phil Popham, this story time series enables young children to experience WMS musicians up close and personal. The format features colorful sets and costumes, hands-on learning and story narration by WMS’s own Karen Vander Zanden.

WMS ENDOWMENT

West Michigan Symphony’s Endowment is held in funds at the Community Foundation for Muskegon County (CFFMC) and the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF). The corpus of each is owned, managed and directed by these foundations, whose trustees determine the timing and amount of distributions.

Established in 1992, the CFFMC Secure the Spirit Fund reported a fair market value of $619,909 on June 30, 2024. Established in 2020, the CFFMC Play Your Part fund reported $2,902,875 on the same date. The GHACF Play Your Part fund, established in 2021, was at $107,805—a combined total of $3,630,589.

PLAY YOUR PART CAMPAIGN

The Play Your Part Campaign’s purpose is to provide stable revenue for the future, including a special fund restricted toward education program growth—specifically for Tune Up, which completed its second year during 2023-2024. We thank all those who have given generously to the campaign to date.

PLAY YOUR PART CAMPAIGN as of 6/30/24

To learn more, please contact Andy Buelow at 231.726.3231 or abuelow@westmichigansymphony.org. WMS has been our treasure for 16 years. Our front row seats have given us the privilege of viewing the movements of guest artists, noting how the musicians play their remarkable instruments, and observing Scott as he gave mini music lessons — all up close. –16 YEAR SUBSCRBERS–

PLAY YOUR PART DONORS

MAESTRO: $250,000 AND UP

Michael & Kay Olthoff

Larry & Lari Hines

Jeffrey Lake Johnson

PREMIER: $100,000-$249,999

Community Foundation for Muskegon County (CFFMC)

Douglas & Janet Hoch

Robert & Wendy Kersman

Scott & Donna Lachniet

CRESCENDO: $50,000-$99,999

Bernie & Cathy Berntson

Jon & Jane Blyth

Mary Theodore Danigelis

Jan & Laura Deur

Pat & Julie Donahue

Mark & Christine Fazakerley

Mrs Carol Folkert

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF)

Howmet Aerospace

Dan & Sheryl Kuznar

Meijer Foundation

Patrick O’Leary Foundation

Steve & Deb Olsen

Jack & Becky Slimko

Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

SYMPHONY: $25,000-$49,999

Pete & Sherry Brown

Orville & Susan Cloutier-Crain

Don & Kathy Dahlstrom

matched by Charles Stewart Mott Fund

Rob & Cathleen Dubault

Eagle Alloy

William & Mary Lou Eyke

Fifth Third Bank

Paul & Karen Jackson

John & Jessie Martin

Monica Morse

Dr Richard & Nancy Peters

Tom Schaub & Mary Price

CONCERTO: $15,000-$24,999

Marilyn Andersen

Allen & Sandy Beck

Jackie Engel, CFP

James & Susan Geisler

Kimberly & Michael Martin

matched by Bank of America

Stephen & Susan Struck

Roger & Rebecca Tuuk

PRELUDE:

$10,000-$14,999

Anonymous

Andy & Beth Buelow

G&L Hot Dogs

The Gerber Foundation

David Gerdes

& Carolyn Smith-Gerdes

Stephen & Debra Jackson

F Martin & Dorothy A Johnson Fund of the GHACF

Paul C Johnson Fund of the CFFMC

Fred & Joanna Norris

Greg & Shelley Olson

Susan Rehrer

Robbins Road Animal Clinic

Dr Alan Steinman

John & Mary Swanson

Liz & Tom Trzaska matched by RENK America

Peter M Turner

Webb Chemical

Judy Wilcox

OVERTURE: $5,000-$9,999

Anonymous BDO

Bill Baldridge

Sherry Albertie Becker

Frank & Susan Bednarek

George & Lori Lynn Cannon

Cofessco Fire Protection

Consumers Energy

Dr Donald & Nancy Crandall

Anne & Allan Dake

Kevin & Annette Even

Mary Anne Gorman

Judith Hayner & Charlene

Romanosky

Greg & Debi Hillebrand

Pat Hunt

Bari Johnson

Tom & Pat Johnson

Dick & Lynn Kamps

Ray & Betsy Komray

Clara Lang

Mark & Bonnie Meengs

Frank & Emma Peterson

Bruce & Marilyn Reichardt

Suzanne Richards & Lee Burlison

Kurt Rosen

Dr F Remington & Ginny Sprague

John & Sue Sytsema

Dan & Ann Tabor

Don & Jane Tjarksen

LJ Verplank

Webb Chemical

Kathy West in memory of David Alan West

SONATA:

$1,000-$4,999

Anonymous (3)

Cynthia Ackerman

Christine Adams

Charles & Gloria Alstrom

Margo Atwell

Bank of America Charitable Foundation

Jack & Marilyn Brown

Ryan & Katie Bryker

Ardy Bulthouse Kroes in honor of Amanda Dykhouse

Robert & Charlotte Chessman

Dr & Mrs Paul Christie

Dr Mark D & Kristina M Clark

Darlene Collet

Core Realty Partners

Kurt & Cheryl Deford

Jean Enright

Charles & Lynn Freeman

Evelyn Geile

Michael Gluhanich

Mr & Mrs Bill Hendrick

Cornelia Holley

Keith & Mary Kay Hopkins

Hugh & Barbara Hornstein

Richard & Holly Hughes

Ed Hunt & Nancy McCarthy

Joel & Kathleen Jarvis

Heather Kettler

Bruce & Mary Krueger

Peter Kurdziel

Michael Martin

Cindy Mazurek

Chris McGuigan & Gary Neal

Susan Meston

Roger & Jane Missimer

Roger & Michelle Morgenstern in memory of Richard & Nancy Morgenstern

Scott & Janee’ Musselman

Gary Nelund & Angie Wasserman-Nelund matched by State Farm Insurance

Dr Dale & Connie Nesbary

Steve & Kathy Parker

Gary & Beth Post

Denis & Barbara Potuznik

RENK America

David & Georganna Rice

David Roodvoets

John & Marilyn Ruck

John Saling & Diane Fischer

Jill Sanders

Chip & Susan Sawyer

Duane & Susan Schecter

Laura Schultz

John & Elaine Severson

Jocelyn Shaw & Doug Hannink

Shoreline Insurance Agency

Michael & Corina Soimar

Scott Speck in honor of the WMS Musicians

Ted & Judy Stojak

Suarez/Polakis Family

Marty & Heidi Sytsema

Bryce & Marti Tallant

Carol Parker Thompson

Peter & Judy Theune

Judy Tierney

Evan & Rachel Ufer

David & Laura Valk

Karen & John Wells

JR Whitby

Eleanor Williams

Dr Roy Winegar & Ms Barbara

Klingenmaier

Jan Witt

Jane Wright

Robert & Joanne Zayko Environmental Fund of the CFFMC

Douglas & Jennifer Zwemer

INTROIT: UP TO $999

Anonymous (4)

Larry & Sandra Austin

Susan A Bissell Memorial Fund

Charles Black in honor of Fred & Joanna Norris

Gary & Rhonda Bogner

Dana & Claudia Bryant

Jerry & Marcia Brichan

Rachel Calderon in memory of Dick Baker

Benjamin Christian on behalf of Tina Horigan

E Jane Connell & Steven W Rosen

Calvin Deur

Harold & Mary Englund

Eugene Fethke

Martha Ferriby

Tilio Giacobassi Family

Erica Gillard

Harvey & Maraleigh Heyer

Ellen Hanichen

Gwen Hoffman

Doug & Judy Hostetler

Mary Ann Howe

Kristi Klomp

Randy & Debra Knapp

Pete & Mimi Kunz

Cindy Larsen

Joeseph & Barbara Legatz

Charles Matthews & Kay Cater Matthews

Patrick & Sheila Miller

Barb & John Mullally

Kathryn Neumann

Perry & Deb Newson

Amy Norris & MJ Towle in honor of Fred & Joanna Norris

James & Ruth Olthoff

Thomas Pascoe

Janet Payne

William & Gay Peterson

Linda Quaine

Rev William Randall

Mike & Char Ratchford

Stephen & Susan Salisbury

Schieholz/Hogan Fund of the CFFMC

Sally Schwartz

Asaline Scott

Joanie Smith

Howard & Marilyn Swanson

Warren Tibbitts

Richard & Marge Tourre

Mary Towner

Nancy & Gerritt Vanderwest

Rebecca Veltman

Duane & Laurie Wright

Raimonds T Ziemelis

Jim & Linda Zolman

TUNE UP DONORS: $5,000+

Cathy & Bernie Berntson Fund of CFFMC

Jon & Jane Blyth

Orville Crain & Susan Cloutier Crain

Community Foundation for Muskegon County (CFFMC)

Mary Theodore Danigelis

Jan & Laura Deur

Mark & Christine Fazakerley

Fifth Third Bank

Gerber Foundation

Harbor Steel & Supply Corporation

Hines Corporation

Dr Douglas E & Janet P Hoch

Howmet Aerospace Foundation

Dick & Lynn Kamps

Robert & Wendy Kersman

Dan & Sheryl Kuznar

Scott & Donna Lachniet

Meijer Foundation

Patrick J O’Leary & Karen Yamasaki

Steve & Deb Olsen

Mike & Kay Olthoff

Jack & Becky Slimko

Stephen & Susan Struck

2023-2024 OPERATING REPORT

While audited financials for FY2024 are not yet available, it was a successful season both artistically and financially. Although surpluses during the previous three budget cycles were attributable to an active endowment campaign, this was not the case in FY2024; surpluses were largely operational and unrestricted. This came about due to multiple factors.

As noted above, the single ticket campaign carried the day in earned revenue, and subscriptions were slightly over goal. This resulted in earned revenue totals of $539,278—$44,866 over the budgeted goal.

In contributed revenue, the success factors were multifaceted. First, we introduced a new tactic at our September 2023 gala: a Raise-the-Paddle for music education. Attendees were invited to make a gift at levels starting from highest ($5,000) to lowest ($50). More than 100 people donated. As a result, the net from the Gala was unprecedented: more than $186,000, or about 160% of goal. (This compares to a prior three-year average of $85,000.) Second, although there was initial concern that this success would detract from the Annual Campaign—and particularly calendar yearend giving— contributions from individuals were unprecedented throughout the season: a total of $484,653 raised (118% of goal). Third, we received unbudgeted estate gifts of $136,970. Lastly, foundation support came in at 152% of goal, primarily due to an unprecedented $57,000 grant from the Michigan Arts & Culture Council’s Cultural Relief fund.

The organization posted an unaudited surplus of $316,675 for FY2024.

2023-2024 SEASON OPERATING RESULTS*

REVENUE

1,885,663

1,568,988 Surplus (Deficit) 316,675

* Organizational audit pending. Please visit www.westmichigansymphony.org to view the most recent audited financial results.

WMS ANNUAL FUND

GIFTS AND PLEDGES AUGUST 1, 2023 THROUGH JANUARY 10, 2025

$10,000 AND UP

Anonymous (3)

Susan Cloutier Crain

Jan & Laura Deur

Deborah DeVoursney

Pat & Julie Donahue

Nelson & Elizabeth Huldin

Stephen & Debra Jackson

Jeffrey Lake Johnson in memory of Jeffrey Johnson. Thanks Jeff!

Wendy M Kersman

Daniel & Sheryl Kuznar

Clara Lang

Steve & Deb Olsen

Mike & Kay Olthoff

Brad & Kathleen Playford

Jill Sanders

Jocelyn Shaw & Doug Hannink

Jack & Becky Slimko

Liz & Tom Trzaska

Peter M Turner

Roger & Rebecca Tuuk

$5,000-$9,999

Anonymous

Jane Blyth

George W & Lori Lynn Cannon III

William & Mary Lou Eyke

Bob & Heather Garretson

James & Susan Geisler

Carl & Sylvia Hansen

Robert & Clara Harrell

Greg & Debi Hillebrand

Paul & Karen Jackson

Kate Kesteloot Scarbrough

Rich & Nancy Klassen

Ryan & Emily Leestma

Chris McGuigan & Gary Neal

Patrick & Sheila Miller

Mike Muskovin

Joanna Norris

Jason & Jamye Olthoff

Frank & Emma Peterson

Barbara Potuznik

Sawyer Family Fund of CFFMC

Tom Schaub & Mary Price

Sam Slaughter & Anne Lehker

Scott Speck

Susan & Stephen Struck

Elinore Verplank (Norna)

Hazel Whittaker In memory of Clara Lang

$2,500-$4,999

Cindy Ackerman

Melisa Baker

Allen & Sandy Beck

Amy Bensinger

Joanne Bensinger

Pete & Sherry Brown in memory of Marilyn Andersen

Claudia Bryant

Andy & Beth Buelow

Gordon & Mary Buitendorp

Valerie Church-McHugh & Fred McHugh

Darlene Collet

Don & Kathy Dahlstrom

Mary Douville

Robert & Cathleen Dubault

Kevin & Annette Even

Larry & Lynette Fife

David F Gerdes & Carolyn Smith-Gerdes

Mark & Jennifer Gross

Gwen & Jeff Hazekamp

Brad & Janice Hilleary

Bruce & Donna Hood

Hon Kathy L Hoogstra & Dr Robert Hoogstra

Amy & William Hosford

Ed Hunt & Nancy McCarthy in memory of Donna Little

Patricia Johnson

Rob & Julie Johnson

Ratan & Vicky Khatri

Denise Kwiecien

Lois Lydens

John & Jessie Martin

Roger C Morgenstern

Bonnie Olson Memorial Fund

Chris & Amy Olthoff

Susan Rehrer

Laura Schultz in memory of Jack Schultz

Dr Michael & Marijean Smith

Dr F Remington & Ginny Sprague

Dr Alan Steinman

Ryan & Kris Sterkenburg

Brad & Erika Vanbergen

Michael & Patricia Wade

Karen & John Wells

JoLee Wennersten

Jan Witt

Tom & Jane Witt

Jim & Linda Zolman

$1,000-$2,499

Charles Alstrom

Susan & Frank Bednarek Fund of the CFFMC

Herb & Anne Bevelhymer

Colin Billingsley

Dave Bishop

Susan Blake

Brian & Jill Boersema

Nick Bolema

Ron & Ann Marie Brown

Janice Buck

Bob & Charlotte Chessman

Amy Conn Tenny in memory of Jeff Conn

Anne M Dake in memory of E Allan Dake

Eric & Merica Dobry

Marcia D'Oyly

Deb & Chris Drake

Joel & Linda Engel

Charles & Patti Fisher

Brian & Gwen Fosse

Charles & Lynn Freeman

Evelyn Geile

Tilio Giacobassi Family

Mary Anne Gorman

Brennen & Rachel Gorman

Mary Gust in honor of Liz and Tom Trzaska

Bill Haug & Jane Curtis

Roberda Hilleary

Larry & Lari Hines

Cornelia Holley

Richard & Holly Hughes

Pat Hunt

Wilda James

Christian Jansen-Yee

Joel & Kathleen Jarvis

Charles & Vivian Johnson

Dick & Lynn Kamps Fund of the CFFMC

Barbara Kelso

Heather Kettler

Pete & Mimi Kunz

Patricia Ladas

Mark & Karla Lange

Tim & Lynette Lipan

Mark Luttenton

Jim & Mary Malek

Cindy Mazurek

Don & Jean Medema

Mark & Bonnie Meengs

Stacy & Eric Mellema

Susan Meston

Kathryn Neumann

Amy Norris & MJ Towle in honor of Joanna Norris

Richard & Katie Norton

KN Literary Arts on behalf of Amy Hosford and the WMS for the work you do to transform lives in meaningful ways!

David & Beth Pickard

Terry & Joy Puffer

Bob & Carol Pyka

Gretchen & Randy Rhoades

Clyde & Beth Rinsema

David Roodvoets

David Ruck

Julia Rupp

John Saling & Diane Fischer

Robert N & Merle N Scolnik Advised Fund of the CFFMC

Josh & Amy Silvis

Dr Carlo V Spataro

Tom & Nanci Stone

Kim Suarez

John & Mary Swanson

John & Sue Sytsema

Drs David & Linda Taylor

Ed DeJong & Diane VanWesep

Melody & JR Whitby

Ellie Williams

Dr Roy Winegar & Ms Barbara Klingenmaier

Marguerite & Kenneth Winter

Jon J & Cathy Workman

Jane J Wright

$500-$999 Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous

Ross & Sandra Aden

Darlene Alt

Bruce & Paula Baker

David & Sue Bird

Richard & Marilyn Brown

Michael Cerminaro & Connie

Verhagen

Jeff & Kelly Clark

Dr Donald & Nancy Crandall

Mary Theodore Danigelis

Chris Dean

Amanda & Gregory Dykhouse

William & Donna Eckert

Wallace & Jane Ewing

Eugene Fethke

Manley Ford

Mark Foreman

Chip & Leslie Furst

Chuck & Jeanne Gembis

Nick Gereaux

Mike & Jamie Hekker

Kurt & Antoinette Hildwein

Susan Hoekenga

Reedel & Rosie Holmes

Jonathon & Wendy Hoogstra

Norma Jean Horan

Maureen & Don Huldin

Donna Joyce

Michelle Kantor Hanley in memory of Mort & Maxine Kantor

Karen Kayes

Thomas Knight

R'na & Kara Komarek in memory of Ronald Komarek DDS

Becky Kuznar

Joan La Mourie

Brian Leibrandt

Shelley Essebaggers Lewis

Andy & Jill Maciejewski

Charles & Kay Cater Matthews

Roger & Jane Missimer

Amanda Moblo

Perry & Deb Newson

Daniel & Dominga Partenio

Dr Richard & Nancy Peters

Nick & Barb Pietrangelo

Roy & Britta Bujak Portenga

Mike & Char Ratchford

Dan & Sarah Rinsema Sybenga

Bob & Bobbi Sabine

Duane & Susan Schecter

Allen & Mistelle Serio

John & Elaine Severson

Helen & Jay Smith

Mary Holmes Sorensen

Tracy Sprague

Eileen Stoffan

Clifford & Lucia Storr

Ann & Dan Tabor

Dr Ryan & Heather Terlouw

Judy Theune

George & Laura Thurlow

Don & Jane Tjarksen

Kathleen Torresen

Richard & Marge Tourre

Catherine & Chris Uganski

Bruce Van Dop in memory of Dr Michael Smith

William & Susan Vander Zanden

Phillip & Loraine VanderPol

Bill & Shirley Walther

Sheryl Wescott

Judy Wilcox

Jonathan & Melissa Wilson

Rachael & Ian Wright

$100-$499

Anonymous

Krista Abbott

James Alexander

Lionel & Contessa Alexander III

Lee Anderson

Michael Anderson

& Brooke Kieft-Anderson

Bernadette Arnold

Margo Atwell

Larry & Sandy Austin

Barbara Bakker

Esther Baldridge

Barbara Bates-Lalick & Martin Lalick

Lisa Bayne

Gary & Carol Beatty

Sherry Albertie Becker

David Beckmann on behalf of Joanna Norris

Anonymous

William Black in memory of Fred Norris

Jeanne Kuharivicz Bleich

Aaron & Amy Bodbyl-Mast

Arthur & Marilyn Bolt in honor of Dr Bruce & Esther Drukker on their 90th birthdays!

David & Karen Booth

Greg Borgman

Sarah Bowman

Dr Mary & Robert Boyer

Martha & Eddie Brown

Michael & Joanna Buboltz

John Max Busard & Elizabeth Busard Fund in memory of Dr & Mrs R I Busard

Marie Bustin

Roger Buter

Curtis Chambers & Diana Wojton

Rudy & Pat Chmelar

Joanne Cochrane

E Jane Connell & Steven W Rosen

Diana Cornell

Bill & Carol Cross

Jessica Wolin & Frank Crownover

Carol Lynn Cubitt

David Culver

Andrew & Samantha Cutler

Bill & Joan Davis in memory of Mary Eherenman

Agnes De Boer

Eugene & Beth Decker

Dean Denman & Gale Ford in memory of Janie Denman

Calvin & Patricia Deur

Phil & Kim Deur

Larry DeVoogd

David & Dortha DeWit

Eric Douville

Joyce Downing in memory of Clara Lang

Judy Draper

Karen Driver

Bruce & Esther Drukker

Dennis & Barbara Dryer

Anonymous

James Edmonson

Bethann Egan & Len Lieffers

Eileen McCormick & Lynne Nash

Robert & Jackie Engel

Harold & Mary Englund

Jean Enright

Jill Farkas

Cork Farkas & Kathy Mauck

Katy & Walt Felver

Jenny Feringa

Bobby Fisher

Carla Flanders CMF

Marketing & Events

Dale & Bridget Fox

Carol & Pete Friar

Bruce Froelich & Margot Haynes

Tommy Fuerst

Marisol Garcia Linstrom

Rick Gentile

Dana & Jeff Glamzi

Diane Goodman

Marjorie Gorajec

Ann Gorter

Marcia Grasman

David & Shari Groendyk

Rick Charles & Jennifer Grow

LaDon Gustafson

Revs' Jerry & Susan Hagans

Virginia Hague

Jeff & Gail Hall

Kirk Hallman & Dawn Boston

Raymond Hamil

George & Eve Hamstra in memory of Dr Michael Smith. Great doctor, great neighbor, best friend.

Lois Haverman

Judith Hayner & Charlene

Romanosky

Rhonda Hennessy

Mike and Ginny Henry

Patricia Hesling

Dan & Celeste Hibler

Molly McCarthy & Timothy Hicks

Vicky Hilliard

Carolyn Hillyer

Gwen Hoffman

Anonymous

Schierholz/Hogan Family Fund of CFFMC

Mary Anne & Thom Hornik

Marcia Hovey-Wright & Ernie Boone

Mary Ann Howe

John & Jane Humphrey

Nicholas Huryk

Katherine & Kenneth Jacobs

Dirk Jasperse

Jessica Jenkins

Ken Johnson

Lori Johnson

Robert & Susan Johnson

Robert E Johnson

Natalie Johnson & Dana Pink in memory of Donna Little

Lamar & Diane Jordan

Linda Juarez & Chris Garzelloni

Brian Kadlec

John Karafa

Brett Karhoff

Loretta Kasprzyk

Francine Kieft

Louie & Earlaine Kiel

Anonymous

Randy & Debra Knapp

Alan Kohley

Sarah & Gregory Korose

Alyssa Kraker

Bruce & Mary Krueger

Meghann Kruse

Mike Kuznar

Jeff & Jody Lewis

Pat Locke

Dale & Amanda Lowder

Anonymous

Deborah Margules

Mahmood & Barbel Masghati

Chris & Kayla May

Shirley McIntire

John & Cindy McKinnon

Stephanie McNamara in honor of Kay and Mike Olthoff

For your tireless philanthropic efforts to improve the world around you.

Paul & Winnie McNergney

Phil McPherson

Howard & Carole Meade Fund

Carol Meech in memory of Dr Michael Smith

JB & Lynn Meeuwenberg

Joan Menke-Schaenzer

Rich & Teresa Micheil

LaShelle Mikesell

Dean Millar

Karen Miller

Deb Mogdis

Vern Molitor

Wendy Morden

Mark & Valerie Muilenburg

John & Barbara Mullally

Anonymous

David R Nancarrow

Jil & Phil Nehra

Susan & Tyler Newton in memory of Herb and Ellie Hoeker Thanks for instilling in us appreciation for this kind of music.

Donielle Nichols

Eric and Lori Nisja

Carol Norris in memory of Fred Norris

David Olsen

Garry & Charlotte Olson

Thomas & Linda Gay Olson

Henry & Mollie Osborn

Bill Papo

Richard A Pardini

Stacy Phillips

John & Karen Pitcher

Gary & Beth Post

Sylvia Precious

Monica Lakatos & Steve Preston

C Bruce & Shirley Privacky

Ellen & Vic Prowant

Rev William Randall

David Redmond in memory of Donna L Little

Faye Redmond

Joan Reeg

Robert & Sharon Remmerde in honor of Leon Fredrick Norris

Cindy Ribesky

Bruce & Mari Rice

Christine & Marv Robere

Dr Gary & Pennie Robertson

Bruce & Judy Rollston

Derek & Claire Root-Benson

Karl and Barbara Rowe Family

Kim Sakis

Penny Sander

Gregory Shaull

Gwynne & Steve Schoff

Pat & Ed Schroeder

Susan (Sue) Schuiteman in memory of Clara Lang

Lennie Schwaiger

John Selmon

Euginnia & Brodie Seyferth

Karen Shields

Craig & Cathy Simons

Colleen & Joseph Skendzel

Hayden Smith

Joanie Smith

Anonymous

Anbritt & Darlene Stengele

Michael & Cindy Stevens

James & Nancy Stier

George & Dottie Strabel

Julie Stuberg

Verne & Janet Sutherland

Marty & Heidi Sytsema

Loretta Temple

Rebecca Thomas

Judith Tierney

Scott Timmer

Charles & Susan Rogalla Tindall

Tom & Kathy Tosa

David & Mary Turbessi

Brandon & MonicaTurnbull

Janice Ubels

Stephen & Valerie Vallier

John Van Walsum

Vanessa & Alex Vander Meulen

David Vanderwall

Kay VanderWall

Nancy L Vanderwest

John & Gwen Varineau

Gerald Walter

Ann Marie Wasserman

Nate & Amanda Westbrook

Neil & Beverly Whitbeck

Jenny Wilkes

Brewster & Mary Ellen Willcox

Beverly Williams

Lynn Winter

Lori Zeman

Raimonds T Ziemelis

CORPORATE, ARTS COUNCIL & FOUNDATION DONORS

$10,000 AND UP

City of Muskegon Community Foundation for Muskegon County

DTE Energy Foundation Fund

Embark Financial Services

Fremont Area Community Foundation

Grand Haven Area

Community Foundation

Harbor Steel & Supply Corporation

Hines Corporation

Howmet Aerospace

Leonel L. & Mary Loder Fund

Meijer Foundation

Michigan Arts & Culture Council

Smith Davis Morse Group

Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

The Gerber Foundation

The Leonard Luxury Apartments

Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Women's Division Chamber of Commerce

$5,000-$9,999

Adelaide Pointe

Consumers Energy

Fifth Third Bank

Howmet Community Fund of the CFFMC

JSJ Foundation Fund

Lorin Industries

RENK America

Samuel L. Westerman Foundation

Shoreline Insurance Agency, Inc.

Trinity Health

Webb Chemical Service Corporation

White Lake Community Fund of the CFFMC

$2,500-$4,999

Charles Stewart Mott Foundation

Grand Valley State University

Hazekamp's Premier Foods

Hungerford

i'move

Lake Michigan Credit Union

Macatawa Bank

Muskegon Community College

Raymond James

West Shore Bank

$1,000-$2,499

Billie Klont Greinke Memorial Fund of the CFFMC

Cofessco

Laketown Family Dental

Mart Dock Corporation

Mary C Payne Fund of the CFFMC

Newkirk Electric

Tyler Sales

$500-$999

Ann & Bud Eichmann Fund of the CFFMC

Bear Lake Tavern

Choice One Bank

John L. Wheeler Memorial

Scholarship Fund of the CFFMC

Northern Machine Tool

Schierholz/Hogan Family Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County

Susan A Bissell Memorial Fund for the Arts

PAST CHAIRS COMMITTEE

The Past Chairs Committee provides ongoing guidance, advocacy and support to the WMS long after its members’ terms are completed. WMS thanks and honors these individuals for their generosity, collective wisdom and continuing leadership.

Tim Arter

Pete Brown

Marcia D’Oyly

David Gerdes

Holly Hughes

David Hogan

Pat Hunt

G Thomas Johnson

Wendy Kersman

Clara Lang

Deb Newson

Kay Olthoff

Mike Olthoff

Sylvia Precious

Chip Sawyer

Ann Tabor

Peter Turner

Jane Wright

BLOCK UNDERWRITERS

Consumers Energy

Grand Valley State University

Lake Michigan Credit Union

Lorin Industries

Michael & Kimberly Martin (Endowed)

Muskegon Community College

Steve & Deb Olsen

Mike & Kay Olthoff

Mary Price & Tom Schaub

Raymond James

Shoreline Insurance Agency

Jack & Becky Slimko

Smith, Haughey, Rice and Roegge

Trinity Health

Tyler Sales

Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

CORPORATE AND FOUNDATION DONORS

Past Chairs COMMITTEE

Samuel L. Westerman Foundation