WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
2022-2023 ANNUAL REPORT
OUT OF THIS WORLD
CONTENTS 3
2022-2023 Season was Out Of This World
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Artistic Highlights
5
Board of Directors/Administration/Strategic Plan
6
WMS Principal Musicians
7
Orchestra Roster
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Welcome New Musicians
10 Community Music Encounters 12 WMS Endowment 13 Play Your Part Campaign Donor List 15 Annual Campaign Donor List 19 Operating Report 20 Corporate and Foundation Donors
VISION We are a catalyst for a music-infused 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
Published January 2024; Designed by Megan James; Photos by Beth Buelow Photography
West Michigan Symphony 360 W. Western Avenue, Suite 200 Muskegon, MI 49440 231.726.3231 westmichigansymphony.org theblockwestmichigan.org
Mike & Kay Olthoff 2022-2023 Season Sponsor
2022-2023 SEASON WAS “OUT OF THIS WORLD” The most moving, memorable, emotionally resonant, impressive musical event I’ve ever experienced. –AUDIENCE MEMBER–
From the opening Music of John Williams to the breathtaking starscape of Holst’s The Planets, 2022-2023 was an extraordinary season, a time of audience renewal and rebuilding. The impact of the live concert experience seemed to deepen for both audience and musicians. Perhaps it was the return to full-sized orchestras, after the previous two seasons of reduced, physically-distanced ensembles. People emerged from the pandemic hungry for authentic experiences of community, which WMS provides—at both the Frauenthal and The Block—with its welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. Whatever the reasons, the connection between the audience and musicians was like nothing seen before. It was a banner year for WMS’s education programs, newly branded as Community Music Encounters. The fall of 2022 saw the launch of Tune Up, WMS’s after-school instrumental music program in Muskegon Public Schools, based on the international El Sistema model. Our Children’s Choir celebrated its 10th Anniversary, and collectively with Debut and Premier Strings, 2022/23 saw the highest youth ensemble participation ever with nearly 80 students. Community annual support was extraordinary, as you will see from the enclosed financial summary, more than replacing the loss of the federal relief that kept WMS stable during the pandemic. Moreover, the earning power of the Endowment grew by the day as pledges from the Play Your Part Campaign continued to arrive. All told, the 2022/23 season was simply out of this world. Thank you for your support! With gratitude,
Susan Cloutier Crain Chairperson
Scott Speck Music Director
Andy Buelow President/CEO
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ARTISTIC HIGHLIGHTS MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS The excitement and energy at the September John Williams season opener was palpable. With an audience of young people, families and students, firsttime buyers and long-term subscribers, community residents and visitors, the evening felt like more than a concert—it was a community celebration. Even Darth Vader showed up.
WHO KNEW ABOUT THE HARP GUITAR? In November, audience members at The Block were treated to the aweinspiring sound of an instrument few had heard of: the 21-string harp guitar. Muriel Anderson, a protégé of the legendary Les Paul, captivated listeners with her unique blend of ethnic, folk and world music, accompanied by her own photographic backdrops.
MATTHEW BECK’S RITE OF SPRING WMS’s principal percussionist opened 2023 in mid-January with a fascinating program featuring his own reduction of Stravinsky’s thorny ballet score Rite of Spring for four-handed piano and percussion. Watching Matt Beck and his colleagues navigate through the plethora of percussion instruments on The Block stage was like a dance in and of itself.
NJIOMA GREVIOUS AND MARCUS NORRIS GLORY 23-year-old violinist Njioma Grevious made her debut with WMS in March performing the new concerto Glory by composer Marcus Norris, who traveled to Muskegon for the occasion. Both artists took the time to visit with students at multiple area schools, and young musicians from throughout West Michigan flocked to the concert and thronged the Frauenthal lobby for autographs and selfies.
CHAPLIN’S SMILE Also in March, WMS presented the state premiere of classical violinist Philippe Quint’s critically-acclaimed multimedia program, Chaplin's Smile. The audience was treated to clips from the famous actor/director’s silent movies, accompanied by Chaplin’s own compositions and that of Ravel, Stravinsky, and the other great composers who influenced him.
HOLST’S THE PLANETS Concertgoers were taken on a musical journey from the ocean to the cosmos during the June 2022-2023 Season Finale. The concert opened with Peter Maxwell Davies’s An Orkney Wedding with Sunrise, complete with solo bagpipes. This was followed by Vaughan Williams’s beloved The Lark Ascending, featuring departing concertmaster John Heffernan. Holst’s epic The Planets was the capstone, with its expanded ensemble of 85 musicians— the largest orchestra ever assembled on the Frauenthal stage.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Susan Cloutier Crain, Chairperson
Retired Executive Director, Disability Network
Bob Garretson
CEO, Embark Financial Partners
Amy Hosford, Vice Chairperson
Donna Joyce
Kevin Even, Treasurer
Kate Kesteloot Scarbrough
Merica S. Dobry, Secretary
Jason Olthoff
Melisa Baker
Emma Peterson
General Manager, KN Literary Arts
Shareholder, Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Senior Council, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Human Resources Manager, Webb Chemical Service Corporation
Jan L. Deur
Advancement Director, DOOR International Retired Executive Director, Mediation & Restorative Services Vice President of Sales, Nichols Director of Philanthropy, Trinity Health
Ryan Sterkenburg CTFA®, CISP®
Senior Wealth Administrator, West Shore Bank
Retired CPA, Verizon
Larry Fife
Retired Infotainment Director, Siemens and Continental Automotive
Bios of each board member may be found at westmichigansymphony. org/learn-more/board-of-directors.
ARTISTIC STAFF
ADMINISTRATIVE 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 Kristina Zeinstra, Tune Up Teaching Artist
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 Sherrie Tower, Finance & Facilities Manager Karen Vander Zanden, VP of Community Learning & Engagement
STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK PILLAR I ARTISTIC VIBRANCY
• Plan Programming that speaks to people at all levels of familiarity with the music • Transform concerts into memory-making events
PILLAR II LEARNING
• 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
PILLAR III COMMUNITY
• Build an organizational culture that fosters diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging • Expand relationships and relevance through strategic collaborations
PILLAR IV AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT
• Expand organizational visibility and reach; cultivate new audiences • Build audience loyalty, sense of community and pride of place
PILLAR V FUND DEVELOPMENT
• Expand and diversify donor base • Build lasting, committed relationships with donors • Supplement annual funding with multi-year, estate and endowment giving
PILLAR VI INFRASTRUCTURE
• Invest in a motivated, effective and collaborative volunteer and staff team • Protect and optimize venues and staging spaces • Refine and optimize Business Model
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WMS PRINCIPAL MUSICIANS
JESÚS LINÁREZ
GENE HAHN
ADAM LIEBERT
AMANDA DYKHOUSE
REBECCA BOELZNER
ALICIA GREGORIAN SAWYERS
JILL MARIE BROWN
ASAKO FURUOYA
Associate Concertmaster
Assistant Concertmaster
MARK PORTOLESE
CARMEN ABELSON
ARTURO ZIRALDO Principal – Viola
Associate Principal – Viola
CAMERON SLAUGH
ROBERT JOHNSON
CHLOE ROBBINS
PAUL CLIFTON-O’DONNELL
Associate Principal – Violin 2 Assistant Principal – Violin 2
IGOR CETKOVIC
Associate Principal – Cello
JONATHAN HOLDEN Principal – Clarinet
Assistant Principal – Cello
Principal – Bassoon
RILEY LINDSEY
Principal – Tuba
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JACIE ROBINSON
Concertmaster
Principal – Bass
Principal – Horn
LEO TAYLOR
Principal – Timpani
Assistant Principal – Violin 1
Principal – Flute
BILL BAXTRESSER
Principal – Trumpet
MATTHEW BECK
Principal – Percussion
Principal – Violin 2
Principal – Cello
Principal – Oboe
EDWARD HICKMAN
Principal – Trombone
SYLVIA NORRIS Principal – Harp
ORCHESTRA ROSTER Music Director Scott Speck Mike & Kay Olthoff Endowed Chair
Viola
Arturo Ziraldo principal Sponsored by Jan & Laura Deur
Rebecca Boelzner assc. principal Sponsored by Anonymous
First Violin Jesús Linárez concertmaster Sponsored by Pat & Julie Donahue
Gene Hahn assc. concertmaster Gust and Mary Theodore Danigelis Endowed Chair
Jacie Robinson asst. concertmaster Sponsored by Bruce & Donna Hood
Adam Liebert asst. principal Sponsored by Dr Alan Steinman
Hannah Christiansen Sponsored by Evelyn Geile
Robbie Herbst Jennifer Kotchenruther Sponsored by Bob & Charlotte Chessman
Jane Mockus Maya Shiraishi Sponsored by Kevin & Annette Even
Oxana Sourine Sponsored by Darlene Collet in memory of Lee Collet
Second Violin Amanda Dykhouse principal Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Endowed Chair
Mark Portolese assc. principal Sponsored by Joanna Norris
Carmen Abelson asst. principal Katie Bast Sponsored by David & Darcy Dye
Patrick Foley Karen-Jane Henry Natalie Hockamier Britta Bujak Portenga Sponsored by Waddell & Reed Financial Advisors Jackie Engel, CFP®
Carol Wildgen Sponsored by Mark & Karla Lange
Tatiana Zueva
Csaba Erdélyi Sponsored by JoLee Wennersten
Josh Holcomb Sponsored by Wietse & Melanie Schaafsma
Cello
Alicia Gregorian Sawyers principal Sponsored by Steve & Deb Olsen
Igor Cetkovic assc. principal Sponsored by David & Darcy Dye
Cameron Slaugh asst. principal Sponsored by Dr F Remington & Ginny Sprague
Lee Copenhaver Sponsored by Dr Mark D & Kristina M Clark
Karen Krummel Abigail Monroe Sponsored by Cynthia Mazurek
Grace Mockus Calin Muresan
Bass
Robert Johnson principal David Chapman-Orr Stephen Reichelt
Flute
Jill Marie Brown principal Sponsored by Anonymous
Marissa Olin Sponsored by Mary E Malek
Leslie Deppe piccolo
Oboe
Asako Furuoya principal Natalie Feldpausch Sponsored by Ellie Williams
Clarinet
Jonathan Holden principal Sponsored by Susan Cloutier Crain
Stephanie Hovnanian Lisa Raschiatore bass clarinet Sponsored by Don & Kathy Dahlstrom matched by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation
Bassoon
Chloe Robbins principal Sponsored by Shelia & Patrick Miller
Jason Kramer Sponsored by Eric & Merica Dobry
Horn
Paul Clifton-O’Donnell principal Jeffrey Lake Johnson Endowed Chair
Greg Bassett Lisa Honeycutt Sponsored by Allen & Sandy Beck
Leah Brockman
Trumpet
Bill Baxtresser principal Sponsored by Roger & Rebecca Tuuk
Ethan Adams
Trombone
Edward Hickman principal Sponsored by Stephen & Debra Jackson
Joe Radtke Sponsored by Laketown Family Dental
Carter Woosley bass trombone Sponsored by Joel & Linda Engel
Tuba
Riley Lindsey principal Sponsored by Dr. Chris Jansen-Yee
Timpani
Leo Taylor principal Douglas & Janet Hoch Endowed Chair
Percussion
Matthew Beck principal Sponsored by Jill Sanders
Jordan Berini Eric Jones Sponsored by Cornelia Holley & Sheryl Wescott
Harp
Sylvia Norris principal Sponsored by Paul & Karen Jackson
Music Librarian
Amanda Dykhouse
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WELCOME NEW MUSICIANS JESÚS LINÁREZ, CONCERTMASTER
Jesús started his music studies in Venezuela at the Vicente Emilio Sojo Music Conservatory and the Latin American Academy. He was a member of the Venezuelan orchestra organization El Sistema, upon which WMS’s Tune Up program is based. A finalist in the 2019 Skokie Valley Orchestra Concerto Competition, and a top prize winner in Roosevelt University’s 2020 Aeolian Classic Emerging Artist Competition, Jesús is currently a student of Almita Vamos at the Chicago College of Performing Arts.
ROBBIE HERBST, VIOLIN
Robbie began his studies at the age of five in New Orleans and holds degrees from Dartmouth College and the University of Colorado. He is a member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and the Southwest Michigan Symphony and has performed with the Louisiana Philharmonic and the Colorado and West Virginia symphonies. Robbie is a published and award-winning writer and an avid rock climber.
JANE MOCKUS, VIOLIN
A native of the Chicago area, Jane began her orchestral studies with the Midwest Young Artists Conservatory in Highwood, IL, before moving to Ann Arbor to attend the University of Michigan. In addition to WMS, she is a substitute violinist and violist with the Jackson, Holland, Lansing, and Adrian symphonies.
KAREN KRUMMEL, CELLO
Beginning cello in kindergarten at age four in London, Karen earned a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Michigan and a Master of Music from the University of Illinois, followed by a year in residency at the Banff Centre. Previously Principal Cellist in the Sinfonia da Camera and the South Bend Symphony, Karen was a member of the Grand Rapids Symphony for 22 years and has taught cello at Calvin University since 1995.
GRACE MOCKUS, CELLO
Grace began musical studies in the suburbs of Chicago at the Midwest Young Artists Conservatory before relocating to Michigan to study at the University of Michigan. She has performed at numerous festivals, including Orford Musique and Bowdoin International Music Festival, as well as with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, U. of M.'s University Symphony and Baroque Chamber Orchestras, and with an early music chamber group of her own creation.
ASAKO FURUOYA, OBOE
Top Prizewinner at the 2013 Yokohama International Music Competition, Asako holds a Bachelor of Music from the New England Conservatory and is currently pursuing her Master’s at Florida’s Lynn University. A frequent performer with the Miami Symphony, she has been invited to summer festivals such as National Orchestral Institute, Kent/Blossom Music, Interlochen Summer Arts Camp and Kusatsu International Music Academy.
CAMERON SLAUGH, CELLO
In addition to their position with WMS, Cameron is a member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, Missouri Symphony and Orchestra Iowa. They have made appearances across the United States and Italy, sharing the stage with Riccardo Muti and the Chicago Symphony, the Colorado Symphony, Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center, among others. Cameron is a founding teaching artist with the Apollo’s Fire Side by Side program, bringing beginning strings education to Chicago’s south side.
NATALIE FELDPAUSCH, OBOE
Natalie is in the final year of earning her Bachelor of Music in performance at GVSU. She has substituted as principal oboist for the Holland Symphony and has participated in the Ostrava Oboe Festival in the Czech Republic, and the Bay View Music Festival in Michigan, where she substituted as the oboist in the faculty woodwind quintet. She has won both the Kenneth G. Bloomquist Prize and the GVSU Concerto Competition. Natalie is an avid rock climber, coffee drinker and full-time aunt.
CHLOE ROBBINS, BASSOON
Chloe obtained her Bachelor of Music Performance at Indiana University, where she is currently pursuing a Performance Degree. While at IU she has performed with numerous local orchestras and chamber music groups. In addition to being an active performer, Chloe occasionally teaches music theory and private lessons.
ETHAN ADAMS, TRUMPET
A native of Arkansas and a freelance player in the Chicago area, Ethan has performed with the Evansville Philharmonic and the New World, Dubuque and Quad City symphonies. He founded the West End Brass in Nashville and was selected via competition to tour Germany and provide educational concerts and masterclasses while pursuing studies with members of the Berlin Philharmonic. Ethan received his Bachelor of Music from Vanderbilt University and his Master of Music from Northwestern University.
CARTER WOOSLEY, BASS TROMBONE
A native of Kentucky, Carter also holds positions with the Opera of the Ozarks in Arkansas, the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and the Bourbon & Brass Company. He holds a Master of Music from DePaul University and Bachelor of Music from the University of Louisville. His arrangements for brass have been performed by the Louisville Brass, Bourbon & Brass Co., Sideshow Brass, the U. of L. Trombone Ensemble and others.
RILEY LINDSEY, TUBA
Active throughout the Chicago area as musician and teacher, Riley is principal tuba of the Billings and Adrian symphonies and has appeared with the New Philharmonic, National Repertory Orchestra and the Battle Creek, Helena, Northwest Indiana and Stockton symphonies. In the course of all this he has had the opportunity to perform with soprano Anna-Maria Martinez, electric violin virtuoso Tracy Silverman, and comedy-rock legend “Weird Al” Yankovic.
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COMMUNITY MUSIC ENCOUNTERS A Community of Listening and Learning West Michigan Symphony connects and enriches our diverse community through the transformative power of music. The organization reaches deeply into the community through a variety of learning opportunities that enrich the lives of children and adults through exploration, participation and performance.
LINK UP I have several students who have struggled with behavior issues and to find a connection at school but when we really started getting into the recorder, they became totally different. They took pride in it and were transformed! – LINK UP TEACHER–
In its 19th season, Link Up saw the return of many schools which had been on hiatus during the pandemic. Over 3,700 students in grades 4 and 5 from Muskegon, Ottawa, Newaygo, Kent, Mason and Oceana counties participated in the acclaimed beginner music program. Music Mentors visited classrooms throughout the year, deepening the program’s impact, sharing insights about their instrument, and helping students learn to play simple melodies on recorders in preparation for the concert. An audience of 4,550 students, teachers and parents attended the concert in May, during which students displayed their newly acquired musicianship by playing recorders, singing, stomping, clapping and moving. Enthused one youngster, “I would like a million more concerts like this—it was awesome!”
DEBUT & PREMIER STRINGS
Word has continued to spread about WMS’s dynamic youth string ensembles, under the direction of Angela Corbin. With a roster of more than 50 members, enrollment in the beginner level Debut Strings and the intermediate to advanced Premier Strings was so high last season that Corbin had to rehearse the groups separately! To accommodate this growth, along with the large number of family and friends who wanted to attend concerts, the fall performance moved from The Block to Muskegon Community College’s Overbrook Theater. For the third year, the joint spring performance with the Children’s Choir was held at the Frauenthal Theater. Premier Strings members also had the thrilling opportunity to perform side by side with WMS musicians during the Link Up concert, conducted by Scott Speck. In early summer a trio of Premier Strings musicians performed at the United Way volunteer appreciation luncheon, part of WMS’s new community engagement initiative.
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NEW
TUNE UP Imagine what it would feel like to flip open an instrument case, see a shining, beautiful violin or viola nestled in the felt lining, and know that instrument is yours to play all year long. Thanks to the support of more than 200 donors to the Play Your Part campaign, students in Muskegon elementary schools experienced just that during the 2022/23 school year.
M! PROGRA
What began as a dream two years ago became a reality as Tune Up, the new beginning string orchestra program, launched at Oakview and Marquette schools with a charter class of 24 students in third through fifth grades. Over the course of the school year, Lead Teaching Artist Lauren Garza spent 2 ½ hours a day four days a week providing group lessons for 10-12 students at a time. Muskegon High School orchestra student musicians were deployed as mentor assistants, which greatly facilitated the rapid advancement of the youngsters. Preparing for performances helped motivate students to practice. The fall semester culminated with a small classroom concert for students and parents. In winter, the students appeared during the February Black History Month celebration at Muskegon Middle School. In May, they closed out the first year with all-school performances for their peers, other teachers, and parents. Tune Up is embedded within the previously existing 21st CCLC IMPACT after-school program. School officials give the program their resounding endorsement. “It’s an invaluable feeder for our middle school orchestra by providing students with at least a full year of prior instruction,” said Superintendent Matthew Cortez. “The students will progress all the more quickly and be ready to play at an advanced level by the time they reach high school.”
CHILDREN’S CHOIR
During its 10th year, WMS Children’s Choir—under the direction of Beth Slimko—saw returning and new members (through referrals and recruiting) from a four-county region. Between their stand-alone concerts and appearances with WMS during the holiday and Link Up concerts, these young vocalists ages 8 to 13 performed for more than 5,000 people over the course of the season. They also sang live for the Lumberjacks hockey team and in front of a large outdoor audience at the Berlin Raceway.
CLICK CLACK MOOSIC
Children love stories, and they love music. Put the two together and it’s sure fire magic. Click Clack Moosic—WMS’s unique storybook series for 2-8 year olds—does just that as it introduces children to orchestral instruments and musical concepts like tempo, dynamics and pitch. The holiday installment of the series—titled Clickity Clack Ho Ho Ho— was presented four times last December, including two sold out ticketed performances and two hosted presentations for Muskegon’s Orchard View Preschool.
For children, studying music includes benefits far beyond the mere learning of playing an instrument, and its ripple effects result in happier, healthier, more balanced children. – NICOLE D’ARCY, DIRECTOR OF IMPACT / MUSKEGON PUBLIC SCHOOLS–
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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 $573,958 on June 30, 2023. Established in 2020, the CFFMC Play Your Part fund reported $1,844,706 on the same date. The GHACF Play Your Part fund, established in 2021, was at $95,891—a combined total of $2,514,555.
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 first year during 20222023. We thank all those who have given generously to the campaign to date. To learn more, please contact Andy Buelow at 231.726.3231 or abuelow@westmichigansymphony.org.
PLAY YOUR PART CAMPAIGN as of 6/30/23 PLEDGES RECEIVED RECEIVABLE Endowment 3,007,490 2,165,878 841,612 Education 665,607 530,250 135,357 Operating 293,201 213,630 79,571 Total 3,966,298 2,909,758 1,056,540
I’m very excited that we have such an excellent symphony orchestra in our community! When we moved here I had no idea we would be blessed with such wonderful music without having to travel an hour or more. –AUDIENCE MEMBER–
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PLAY YOUR PART DONORS MAESTRO: $250,000 AND UP
PRELUDE: $10,000-$14,999
SONATA: $1,000-$4,999
Anonymous (3) Cynthia Ackerman Christine Adams Charles & Gloria Alstrom Margo Atwell PREMIERE: $100,000-$249,999 Bank of America Charitable Community Foundation for Foundation Muskegon County (CFFMC) Jack & Marilyn Brown Douglas & Janet Hoch Ryan & Katie Bryker Robert & Wendy Kersman Ardy Bulthouse Kroes Scott & Donna Lachniet in honor of Amanda Dykhouse Robert & Charlotte Chessman CRESCENDO: $50,000-$99,999 Dr & Mrs Paul Christie Bernie & Cathy Berntson Dr Mark D & Kristina M Clark Jon & Jane Blyth Darlene Collet Mary Theodore Danigelis Core Realty Partners Jan & Laura Deur Kurt & Cheryl Deford Pat & Julie Donahue Jean Enright Mark & Christine Fazakerley Charles & Lynn Freeman Mrs Carol Folkert Evelyn Geile Grand Haven Area Community Michael Gluhanich Foundation (GHACF) OVERTURE: $5,000-$9,999 Matt & Amy Heisser Family Fund Anonymous Harbor Steel & Supply Corporation of the CFFMC Howmet Aerospace BDO Mr & Mrs Bill Hendrick Dan & Sheryl Kuznar Bill Baldridge Cornelia Holley Meijer Foundation Keith & Mary Kay Hopkins Sherry Albertie Becker Patrick O’Leary Foundation Hugh & Barbara Hornstein Frank & Susan Bednarek Steve & Deb Olsen Richard & Holly Hughes George & Lori Lynn Cannon Ed Hunt & Nancy McCarthy Jack & Becky Slimko Cofessco Fire Protection Joel & Kathleen Jarvis Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Consumers Energy Heather Kettler Dr Donald & Nancy Crandall Bruce & Mary Krueger Anne & Allan Dake SYMPHONY: $25,000-$49,999 Peter Kurdziel Kevin & Annette Even Pete & Sherry Brown Michael Martin Mary Anne Gorman Orville & Susan Cloutier Crain Judith Hayner & Charlene Romanosky Cindy Mazurek Don & Kathy Dahlstrom Chris McGuigan & Gary Neal matched by Charles Stewart Mott Fund Greg & Debi Hillebrand Susan Meston Rob & Cathleen Dubault Pat Hunt Roger & Jane Missimer Eagle Alloy Bari Johnson Roger & Michelle Morgenstern William & Mary Lou Eyke Tom & Pat Johnson in memory of Richard & Fifth Third Bank Dick & Lynn Kamps Nancy Morgenstern Paul & Karen Jackson Ray & Betsy Komray Scott & Janee’ Musselman John & Jessie Martin Clara Lang Gary Nelund & Angie Monica Morse Mark & Bonnie Meengs Wasserman-Nelund Dr Richard & Nancy Peters Frank & Emma Peterson matched by State Farm Insurance Tom Schaub & Mary Price Bruce & Marilyn Reichardt Dr Dale & Connie Nesbary Suzanne Richards & Lee Burlison Steve & Kathy Parker Kurt Rosen CONCERTO: $15,000-$24,999 Gary & Beth Post Dr F Remington & Ginny Sprague Marilyn Andersen Denis & Barbara Potuznik John & Sue Sytsema Allen & Sandy Beck RENK America Dan & Ann Tabor Jackie Engel, CFP David & Georganna Rice Don & Jane Tjarksen James & Susan Geisler David Roodvoets LJ Verplank Kimberly & Michael Martin John & Marilyn Ruck Webb Chemical matched by Bank of America John Saling & Diane Fischer Kathy West in memory of Stephen & Susan Struck Jill Sanders Roger & Rebecca Tuuk David Alan West Chip & Susan Sawyer Michael & Kay Olthoff Hines Corporation Jeffrey Lake Johnson
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
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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 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
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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 RESTRICTED GIFTS
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 The Gerber Foundation Harbor Steel & Supply Corporation Hines Corporation Douglas & Janet Hoch Howmet Aerospace Dick & Lynn Kamps Robert & Wendy Kersman Dan & Sheryl Kuznar Scott & Donna Lachniet Meijer Foundation Patrick O’Leary Foundation Steve & Deb Olsen Mike & Kay Olthoff Jack & Becky Slimko Stephen & Susan Struck
SUSTAINING THE SYMPHONY 2022-2023 ANNUAL CAMPAIGN AUGUST 1, 2022 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2023 $10,000 AND UP
Anonymous Susan Cloutier Crain Jan & Laura Deur Deborah DeVoursney Pat & Julie Donahue Douglas & Janet Hoch Jeffrey Lake Johnson Anonymous Clara Lang Ryan & Emily Leestma Steve & Deb Olsen Mike & Kay Olthoff In memory of Fred Norris and Michael Soimar Brad & Kathleen Playford Jill Sanders Jack & Becky Slimko Peter M Turner Roger & Rebecca Tuuk
$5,000-$9,999
Anonymous (2) Melisa Baker George W & Lori Lynn Cannon III Dr Mark D & Kristina M Clark Mary Douville William & Mary Lou Eyke James & Susan Geisler Greg & Debi Hillebrand Nelson & Elizabeth Huldin Paul & Karen Jackson Stephen & Debra Jackson Buzz & Wendy Kersman Kate Kesteloot Scarbrough Daniel & Sheryl Kuznar Scott & Donna Lachniet Patrick & Sheila Miller Joanna Norris Frank & Emma Peterson Sawyer Family Fund of CFFMC Tom Schaub & Mary Price Sam Slaughter & Anne Lehker Dr Michael & Marijean Smith Scott Speck Liz & Tom Trzaska JoLee Wennersten Hazel Whittaker In memory of Clara Lang
$2,500-$4,999
Krista Abbott Pete & Sherry Brown Andy & Beth Buelow Darlene Collet Eric & Merica Dobry Rob & Cathleen Dubault Larry & Lynette Fife David F Gerdes & Carolyn Smith-Gerdes Tilio Giacobassi Family Bill Haug & Jane Curtis Bruce & Donna Hood Hon Kathy L Hoogstra & Dr Robert Hoogstra Amy & William Hosford Happy 90th Birthday to Marlene Greiner Charles & Vivian Johnson Barbara Kelso John & Jessie Martin Roger C Morgenstern Chris & Amy Olthoff Jason & Jamye Olthoff Dr Richard & Nancy Peters Denis & Barbara Potuznik Terry & Joy Puffer John Saling & Diane Fischer Wietse & Melanie Schaafsma Laura Schultz Dr F Remington & Ginny Sprague Dr Alan Steinman Susan & Stephen Struck Michael & Patricia Wade Jim & Linda Zolman
$1,000-$2,499
Anonymous (2) Anonymous In honor of Joanna Norris. Merry Christmas, Joey! Anonymous Thank you Susan Cloutier Crain Cindy Ackerman Charles Alstrom Allen & Sandy Beck Susan & Frank Bednarek Fund of the CFFMC Herb & Anne Bevelhymer Colin Billingsley Jane Blyth Janice Buck Gordon & Mary Buitendorp Andrew Busard
Michael Cerminaro & Connie Verhagen Bob & Charlotte Chessman Valerie Church-McHugh & Fred McHugh Amy Conn Tenny In memory of Jeff Conn Don & Kathy Dahlstrom In memory of Fred Norris, Matched by Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Marcia D'Oyly Deb & Chris Drake Joel & Linda Engel Robert & Jackie Engel Kevin & Annette Even Brian & Gwen Fosse Evelyn Geile Linda Gregorian In honor of Alicia Gregorian Sawyers Mark & Jennifer Gross Robert & Clara Harrell Kurt & Antoinette Hildwein Cornelia Holley Richard & Holly Hughes Pat Hunt Ed Hunt & Nancy McCarthy Todd & Tami Jacobs Wilda James Christian Jansen-Yee Joel & Kathleen Jarvis Pat Johnson Dick & Lynn Kamps Heather Kettler Rich & Nancy Klassen Paul & Patricia Ladas Mark & Karla Lange Estate of Joan Leder Tim & Lynette Lipan Jim & Mary Malek Cindy Mazurek Chris McGuigan & Gary Neal Mark & Bonnie Meengs Susan Meston Scott & Janee' Musselman Kelly Notaras/KN Literary Arts On behalf of Amy Hosford. Thank you West Michigan Symphony, for the work you do to transform lives in meaningful ways! Bonnie Olson Memorial Fund Steve & Kathleen Parker Ed & Judy Pietila Susan Rehrer
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Gretchen & Randy Rhoades In memory of Fred Norris Clyde & Beth Rinsema Dan & Sarah Rinsema Sybenga David Ruck Josh & Amy Silvis Gregg & Sue Slager Ryan & Kris Sterkenburg Tom & Nanci Stone John & Mary Swanson Marty & Heidi Sytsema Drs David & Linda Taylor LJ Verplank Karen & John Wells Sheryl Wescott Melody & JR Whitby Jerry Wiersma Judy Wilcox Ellie Williams Dr Roy Winegar & Ms Barbara Klingenmaier Marguerite & Kenneth Winter Jan Witt Tom & Jane Witt Jane J Wright
$500-$999
Anonymous Anonymous In memory of my dad Ross & Sandra Aden Darlene Alt Bruce & Paula Baker In memory of JoAnn Landman Fred & Ann Bleakley Brian & Jill Boersema Arthur & Marilyn Bolt Ron & Ann Marie Brown Ardy Bulthouse Kroes In memory of Rodger Kroes Greta Bushnell Curtis Chambers & Diana Wojton George & Deborah Chmelar Fritz Coutchie Dr Donald & Nancy Crandall Anne Dake Mary Theodore Danigelis Chris Dean Amanda & Gregory Dykhouse Jean Enright Wallace & Jane Ewing Mark Foreman Charles & Lynn Freeman Ron Fritz Chip Furst Chuck & Jeanne Gembis Don Goodman Brennen & Rachel Gorman Reedel & Rosie Holmes Jonathon & Wendy Hoogstra Robert E. Johnson Donna Joyce
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Tim & Catherine Kozal Denise Kwiecien Joan La Mourie Brian Leibrandt Shelley Essebaggers Lewis Pat Locke Andy & Jill Maciejewski Charles Matthews & Kay Cater Matthews Paul & Winnie McNergney LeighAnn Mikesell & Ward LaDuke Roger & Jane Missimer Perry & Deb Newson In memory of Fred Norris Eric & Jennifer Norris In memory of Fred Norris Richard & Katie Norton Nick & Barb Pietrangelo Roy & Britta Bujak Portenga Gary & Beth Post Robert Pyka Mike & Char Ratchford Dr Gary & Pennie Robertson David Roodvoets Duane & Susan Schecter Allen & Mistelle Serio John & Elaine Severson Dan Sheldon Mary Holmes Sorensen Carlo Spataro Eileen Stoffan Kim Suarez John & Sue Sytsema Ann & Dan Tabor In memory of JoAnn Landman Dr Ryan & Heather Terlouw George & Laura Thurlow Richard & Marge Tourre Stacey Uganski Ed DeJong & Diane VanWesep Elinore Verplank (Norna) Matt & Cheryl Wansten Jonathan & Melissa Wilson
$100-$499
Anonymous (8) Anonymous In memory of Robert & JoAnn Landman Lionel & Contessa Alexander III Joanna Alfredson Lee Anderson Michael Anderson & Brooke Kieft-Anderson Tim & Cheryl Arter Margo Atwell Larry & Sandy Austin Travis Barkel Barbara Bates-Lalick & Martin Lalick Thomas & Muriel Beattie In memory of Fred Norris Gary and Carol Beatty Sherry Albertie Becker
Amy Bensinger David & Sue Bird William Black In memory of Fred Norris Jeanne Kuharivicz Bleich Aaron & Amy Bodbyl-Mast David & Karen Booth Greg Borgman Monica & Matthew Bowen Mary & Bob Boyer Bill & Sue Brookstra Michael & Joanna Buboltz Brett Burza Ray & Theresa Chaplin Rudy & Pat Chmelar Richard & Gay Cole Robert & Diane Collier In memory of Fred Norris E Jane Connell & Steven W Rosen Jared & Bethany Cramer William & Carol Cross III Jessica Wolin & Frank Crownover David Culver Ian K Davis Garry & Carolyn DeBoer Kurt & Cheryl Deford Dean Denman & Gale Ford In memory of Janie Denman Larry DeVoogd Greg & Judith DeWeerd David and Dortha DeWitt John & Jan Ditmar Joyce Downing In memory of Clara Lang Judy Draper Karen & Herb Driver Bruce & Esther Drukker Dennis & Barbara Dryer William & Donna Eckert James Edmonson Kath & Greg Edwards Bethann Egan & Len Lieffers Harold & Mary Englund Cork Farkas & Kathy Mauck Eugene Fethke Bobby Fisher Charles & Patti Fisher Carla Flanders Roberta Fleischmann William Fohlbrook & Vicky Thalen Manley Ford Brenda Freye Mr & Mrs Peter M Friar Bruce Froelich & Margot Haynes Paula DeGregorio & Frank Galante Marisol Garcia Linstrom Jeff Gietzen & Heather Storck Tonya & Gary Gonzalez Marjorie Gorajec Mary Anne Gorman Ann Gorter Thom & Judy Gouwens
LaDon Gustafson Rev Jerry & Rev Susan Hagans Virginia Hague Jeff & Gail Hall Kirk Hallman & Dawn Boston Craig & Carolyn Hart In memory of Fred Norris Kathleen Harwood Patricia Hesling Dan & Celeste Hibler Roberta Hilleary Gwen Hoffman Mary Anne & Thom Hornik Marcia Hovey-Wright & Ernie Boone Mary Ann Howe John & Jane Humphrey Nicholas Huryk Katherine & Kenneth Jacobs Ken James Robert & Susan Johnson Natalie Johnson & Dana Pink In memory of Donna Little Connie Karry Karen Kayes James Kendra Francine Kieft Louie & Earlaine Kiel Randy & Debra Knapp Thomas Knight Vicki Kraus Meghann Kruse Pete & Mimi Kunz Mary & Greg LaGuire JoAnn Landman Children of James & Susan Geisler In honor of their parents on their 53rd Anniversary Corena Leutscher Jeff & Jody Lewis Lloyd & Mildred Lindland In memory of Fred Norris. A talented musician and champion of music. Kyle & Stacey Lohman Lori & Dave Loring Dale Lowder Mark Luttenton William & Mary Macleod Sandy Majeski Deborah Margules Michael Martin Shirley McIntire Jack McKeough John & Cindy McKinnon Howard and Carole Meade Fund Mr and Mrs Graydon Megan Alice Meldrum Rich & Teresa Micheil Sarah Miller Amanda Moblo Vern Molitor John & Barbara Mullally Matt & Laurel Nease
Kathryn L Neumann Susan and Tyler Newton In memory of Herb and Ellie Hoeker. Thanks for instilling in us appreciation for this kind of music. Carol Norris In honor of Fred and Joanna Norris David Olsen Garry & Charlotte Olson Henry & Mollie Osborn In memory of Fred Norris Richard A Pardini Gay C Petersen David & Beth Pickard Barb Pitcher Albert & Elizabeth Posthuma Sylvia Precious C Bruce & Shirley Privacky Rev William Randall David Redmond In memory of Donna Little Faye Redmond Robert & Sharon Remmerde In honor of Fred Norris, friend and multi-talented musician. Bruce & Mari Rice Christine & Marv Robere Kathy & Mike Rohlman Andy & Shelly Rush Bob & Bobbi Sabine Gwynne & Steve Schoff Pat & Ed Schroeder Lee & Sandra Schuitema Sue Schuiteman In memory of Clara Lang John Selmon Jocelyn Shaw & Doug Hannink Colleen & Joseph Skendzel Hayden Smith Helen & Jay Smith Joanie Smith Nancy Spargo In memory of Fred Norris. It is an honor to support the continued activities of the symphony he loved so dearly. Michael & Cindy Stevens James & Nancy Stier Clifford & Lucia Storr George & Dottie Strabel Julie Stuberg Verne & Janet Sutherland Howard & Marilyn Swanson Mona Thelen Judy Theune Sera Thompson In memory of Fred Norris Judith Tierney Scott Timmer Charles & Susan Rogalla Tindall David & Mary Turbessi Brandon Turnbull
Sandra Tyrrell In memory of Fred Norris Catherine & Chris Uganski Stephen & Valerie Vallier John Van Walsum Jenny Wilkes Phillip VanderPol Nancy L Vanderwest Tim Volkema Bill & Shirley Walther Dan & Nancy Weller Brewster & Mary Ellen Willcox Norman Young Robert & Joanne Zayko Lori Zeman Raimonds T Ziemelis Douglas & Jennifer Zwemer Lamar and Diane Jordan
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 Leonel L. & Mary Loder Fund Meijer Foundation Michigan Arts & Culture Council RENK America Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge The Gerber Foundation Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Webb Chemical Service Corporation Women's Division Chamber of Commerce
$5,000-$9,999
Adelaide Pointe Bank of America Consumers Energy Fifth Third Bank Howmet Community Fund of the CFFMC JSJ Foundation Fund Lorin Industries Muskegon Community College Samuel L. Westerman Foundation Shoreline Insurance Agency, Inc. The Leonard Luxury Apartments Trinity Health West Shore Bank
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$2,500-$4,999
DTE Energy Grand Valley State University Howmet Aerospace i'move Lake Michigan Credit Union Mart Dock Corporation Merrill Lynch PNC Bank Raymond James Scherdel Sales & Technology
$1,000-$2,499
Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Cofessco Hazekamp's Premier Foods Billie Klont Greinke Memorial Fund of the CFFMC Northern Machine Tool Mary C Payne Fund of the CFFMC Port City Ventures Sparta Community Foundation Laketown Family Dental Tyler Sales
$500-$999
Susan A Bissell Memorial Fund for the Arts Ann & Bud Eichmann Fund of the CFFMC Schierholz/Hogan Family Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County Shape Corporation John L. Wheeler Memorial Scholarship Fund of the CFFMC
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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 Scherdel Sales & Technology Shoreline Insurance Agency Jack & Becky Slimko Smith, Haughey, Rice and Roegge Trinity Health Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
2022-2023 OPERATING REPORT During 2022-2023, Earned Revenue continued its upward trajectory with a 4% increase over 2021-2022 and a 45% increase over the pandemic virtual-concerts season of 2020-2021. Although subscriptions remained below prepandemic levels, single ticket sales balanced this out—resulting in attendance levels 3% over 2018-2019, the last full pre-pandemic season. Attendance and other Program Revenue accounted for 30% of budget compared to the previous season’s 20%. Individual Gifts carried the day in contributed revenue at nearly 40%, a significant increase over the previous season. Government support, elevated during the pandemic through federal relief funding programs, resumed its normal level at 2%, consisting of an annual operating grant from the Michigan Arts & Culture Council. Expenses increased 14% over the previous season due to multiple factors, including: 1.) the return to full-sized symphony orchestras in the main concert series; 2.) the restoration of the Link Up program to three performances; and 3.) the launch of the new Tune Up beginning strings program.
2022-2023 SEASON OPERATING RESULTS* REVENUE Earned Contributed TOTAL
REVENUE Individuals: 39%
476,318 1,034,107 1,510,425
EXPENSE Program Services Administration Advancement TOTAL
1,078,050 240,193 147,983 1,466,226
Surplus (Deficit)
44,199
Corporate & Foundation: 14% Gala: 10% Tickets Sales/ Program Revenue: 30% Government: 2% Other Earned: 5%
EXPENSE
Program Services: 74% Administration 16% Advancement: 10%
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CORPORATE AND FOUNDATION DONORS
SAMUEL L. WESTERMAN
FOUNDATION
Past Chairs COMMITTEE