WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY 2020-2021 ANNUAL REPORT
REINVENTING & REIMAGINING
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ALEX HARDING
CONTENTS 3 5 6 7 9 11 13 14 16 17 20
The Mother of Invention Strategic Plan Board & Staff Musicians Education Report DEI Framework Play Your Part Campaign Play Your Part Donor Listing 2020-2021 Operating Report Annual Campaign Donor Listing Sponsors & Foundations
ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
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 • The Block, a gathering space that sparks curiosity, inspiration and fellowship through the shared experience of uncommon live music • Music Education that enriches the lives of children and adults through exploration, participation and performance
DEBUT STRINGS Designed by Keely Payne West Michigan Symphony 360 W. Western Avenue, Suite 200 Muskegon, MI 49440 231.726.3231 westmichigansymphony.org theblockwestmichigan.org 2
Season Sponsor
NECESSITY WAS THE MOTHER OF INVENTION IN 2020-2021 Here it is, nearly two full years since our entire world was turned upside down. Like so many segments of society, our beloved music world truly struggled; even now, it is hardly back to what we could call normal. Orchestras and other cultural institutions are still working to regain equilibrium. During the dark days of quarantine, we at the West Michigan Symphony began to reimagine how things could look if we started from scratch. With our beloved Frauenthal Theater closed to the public, we were forced to dream up innovative alternatives to performances in front of a live audience. As you know, we were one of the first orchestras in the country to begin performing again—we don’t know of any that started sooner—and we literally had no models to follow. Time after time, we revamped our concert schedule and programming, responding to the crisis in real time and reinventing yet again. This process was simultaneously frustrating and exhilarating, and the results were inspiring. Even with smaller forces, our virtual performances found a grateful and receptive audience. It was nothing less than inspirational to see the emotional impact these performances had on our adult patrons, as well as the young people participating in WMS educational offerings. What a tangible demonstration of how vital music can be to the reawakening of our community for people of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds! As we write, the pandemic still lingers. We are learning to live with it, as fully yet safely as possible. Since November, under our “Safe Nights at the Symphony” protocol, those who feel ready have donned their masks and vaccine wristbands and joyfully returned to the Frauenthal for live music. Those not ready to take this step continue to enjoy the online webcasts a week later. We hope and trust that live attendance is back to stay. Regardless, the WMS Virtual Concert Hall remains an alternative, providing a rewarding and vital athome connection to the orchestra. Looking beyond, could the initiatives of the previous year supply a blueprint for the future? With the new virtual format, our concerts and educational offerings can be beamed into any home or school, accessible at the viewer’s chosen timeframe. This could be a game changer—enabling our art form to reach a wider and more diverse audience than ever before.
Let’s envision a future where performances and programs are available through a variety of avenues—live and virtual, and formats yet to be devised. If you are reading this, chances are you were exposed to the arts at a young age. The arts empowered you to explore, to question, to experience beauty, and to create change. If we could fix one thing in this country, it would be the fact that most children’s access to culture has long been dependent on their parents’ resources. We all deserve the chance to get the astonishing riches of classical music in our lives. Wouldn’t it be amazing if the work currently being done by every arts institution were shared with every child online? Don’t misunderstand us: we believe as strongly as ever in the live concert experience. We missed it terribly last year! If anything, the enforced drought of 2020-2021, which ended with November’s triumphant return, only underscored its vital importance. (continued)
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But let us allow ourselves to envision a future where performances and education programs are available through a variety of avenues—live and virtual concerts, online interactive lessons and classes, and other formats. With video performances and other platforms yet to be invented, our art form has the chance to reach a wider and more diverse audience than ever before. For us, the live concert will undoubtedly remain the cornerstone encounter, but imagine the impact this increased accessibility could have. What a novel way to introduce the orchestra to new listeners, perhaps leading to a resurgence at the concert hall! Even for those who may never set foot in the Frauenthal, music is as essential as air, food and water. It carries them, as it carries us, through life’s easiest and most difficult moments. Music is not a privilege— it is a birthright. We should no longer be content to fulfill our mission through a single, proscribed avenue. We must devise as many ways as possible to meet people where they are. Whether inside the concert hall or out in the community, West Michigan Symphony must truly serve as a catalyst for a music-infused life. ••
Scott Speck Andy Buelow Music Director President/CEO
VIOLINIST TESSA LARK
MAMBO KINGS CONCERT
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PERCUSSIONIST TOM SHARPE
2020-2023 STRATEGIC PLAN 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.
PILLAR I ARTISTIC VIBRANCY
PILLAR II MUSIC EDUCATION
PILLAR III COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
PILLAR IV AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT
PILLAR V FUND DEVELOPMENT
PILLAR VI INFRASTRUCTURE
• Plan programming that attracts and inspires people at all levels of familiarity with the art form • Transform concerts into events that captivate audiences and become the “talk of the town”
• Work toward eliminating barriers to participation in music education for all the community’s youth • Expand program geographic footprint to include under-served areas of West Michigan • Develop adult programs that deepen music appreciation and participation
• Expand relationships and relevance through strategic collaborations • Work toward diversifying the organization at all levels to accurately reflect the community
• Expand organizational visibility and reach; cultivate new audiences • Build audience loyalty, retention and sense of community
• Expand and diversify the donor base • Build lasting, committed relationships with donors • Grow organizational endowment
• Build and retain the human resources needed to achieve this plan • Protect and optimize venues and staging spaces • Refine and optimize Business Model
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY Susan Cloutier Crain • Chairperson Retired Executive Director, Disability Network
THE BLOCK ADVISORS Emma Peterson • Chairperson Director of Philanthropy, Mercy Health
Paul R Jackson Secretary and Immediate Past President Partner, Warner Norcross + Judd, LLP
Marquis Childers Business & Economic Prosperity Consultant
Kimberly L Hammond, CFP, CIMA, C(k)P • Treasurer Senior Resident Director, Merrill Lynch Peter W Brown Retired Engineer, Ricardo Inc. Ryan W Bryker Tax Partner, BDO Jan L Deur Retired CPA, Verizon Kevin B Even Shareholder, Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Larry Fife Retired Infotainment Director Siemens and Continental Automotive
April Jendrasiak Project Manager, Th3rd Coast Media Don Kalisz Owner & Director, Kindred Marketing Brian Leibrandt Attorney, DMK Development Jason Olthoff VP of Business Development & New Markets, Nichols Kenneth Robison HR Manager, Scherdel Sales & Technology Kerri Vanderhoff Executive Director Coalition for Community Development
Amy Hosford Associate Publisher, Brillance Publishing (Amazon) Dr Dale Nesbary President, Muskegon Community College Michael Olthoff CEO, Nichols Emma Peterson Director of Philanthropy, Mercy Health
ADMINISTRATION
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Andrew Buelow President/CEO
Keely Payne Art Director & Marketing Manager
Amanda Dykhouse Orchestra Librarian
Gabe Slimko Vice President of Operations/Personnel Manager
Maris Myers Patron Services Manager
Sherrie Tower Finance and Facilities Manager
Karen Mueller O’Neill Vice President of Development & Marketing
Karen Vander Zanden Director of Education & Corporate Engagement
WMS PRINCIPAL MUSICIANS Our musicians are West Michigan’s cultural ambassadors and a key part of its creative capital. In addition to WMS, our players teach privately and at major Michigan universities, perform with other orchestras, and appear as recitalists and chamber musicians across the Midwest and beyond. John Heffernan
Gene Hahn
Concertmaster
Associate Concertmaster
Jacie Robinson
Adam Liebert
Amanda Dykhouse
Mark Portolese
Arturo Ziraldo
Romona Merritt
Alica Gregorian Sawyers
Igor Cetkovic
Brook Bennett
Jill Marie Brown
Gabriel Renteria
Jonathan Holden
Marat Rakhmatullaev
Paul Clifton-O’Donnell
Pamela Smitter
Edward Hickman
Clinton McCanless
Matthew Beck
Sylvia Norris
Leo Taylor
Assistant Concertmaster
Associate Principal Viola
Principal Oboe
Principal Trombone
Assistant Principal Violin 1
Principal Cello
Principal Clarinet
Principal Tuba
Principal Violin 2
Associate Principal Cello
Principal Bassoon
Principal Percussion
Associate Principal Violin 2
Assistant Principal Cello
Principal Horn
Principal Harp
Principal Viola
Principal Flute
Principal Trumpet
Principal Timpani
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WMS MUSICIANS Music Director Scott Speck Mike & Kay Olthoff Endowed Chair
First Violin John Heffernan concertmaster Sponsored by Pat & Julie Donahue
Gene Hahn assc. concertmaster Gust and Mary Theodore Danigelis Endowed Associate Concertmaster Chair
Jacie Robinson asst. concertmaster Sponsored by Bruce & Donna Hood
Adam Liebert asst. principal Sponsored by Dr Alan Steinman
Carmen Abelson Hannah Christiansen Jennifer Kotchenruther Sponsored by Bob & Charlotte Chessman
Sofiya Levchenko Maya Shiraishi Oxana Sourine Sponsored by Darlene Collet in memory of Lee Collet
Sofie Yang Second Violin Amanda Dykhouse principal Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Endowed Chair
Mark Portolese assc. principal Katie Bast Karen-Jane Henry Sponsored by Elinore Verplank
Natalie Hockamier Britta Bujak Portenga Sponsored by Waddell & Reed Financial Advisors Jackie Engel, CFP®
Rachele Torres Carol Wildgen Tatiana Zueva Viola Arturo Ziraldo principal Sponsored by Jan & Laura Deur
Romona Merritt assc. principal Sponsored by Tom Schaub & Mary L Price
David Beytas Sara Churchill Csaba Erdélyi Sponsored by JoLee Wennersten
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Josh Holcomb Howard Jones
Cello Alicia Gregorian Sawyers principal Sponsored by Pete & Sherry Brown
Igor Cetkovic assc. principal Brook Bennett asst. principal Sponsored by Dr F Remington & Ginny Sprague
Trumpet Pamela Smitter principal Sponsored by Bari Johnson
Bill Baxtresser Sponsored by Roger & Rebecca Tuuk
Anthony DiMauro
Lee Copenhaver Sponsored by Dr Mark D & Kristine M Clark
Calin Muresan Sponsored by Dana Gonzalez
Open Sponsored by Cynthia Mazurek
Bass Open principal Open assc. principal David Chapman-Orr Sponsored by Tom Knight
Flute Jill Marie Brown principal Marissa Olin Leslie Deppe piccolo Oboe Gabriel Renteria principal Open Phil Popham English horn Clarinet Jonathan Holden principal Sponsored by Jon & Jane Blyth
Stephanie Hovnanian Sponsored in memory of E Wesley & Orel A Borgeson
Lisa Raschiatore bass clarinet Sponsored by Don & Kathy Dahlstrom matched by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation
Bassoon Marat Rakhmatullaev principal Jason Kramer Horn Paul Clifton-O’Donnell principal Greg Bassett Lisa Honeycutt Sponsored by Allen & Sandy Beck
Leah Brockman
Trombone Edward Hickman principal Sponsored by Allan & Anne Dake, Jan Deur, Jack & Laura Schultz, Ted & Judy Stojak
Joe Radtke Evan Clifton bass trombone Tuba Clinton McCanless principal Timpani Leo Taylor principal Douglas & Janet Hoch Endowed Chair
Percussion Matthew Beck principal Boyan Tantchev Sponsored by Jill Sanders
Eric Jones Sponsored by Marcia D’Oyly
Harp Sylvia Norris principal Sponsored by Paul & Karen Jackson
Piano/Celesta Open Sponsored by Suzanne Richards & Lee Burlison
Music Librarian Amanda Dykhouse Sponsored by Ardy Bulthouse Kroes
MAINTAINING MUSICAL CONNECTIONS WITH CHILDREN Accessible and adaptable were the twin watchwords for our education programs during the 2020-2021 year. Like other arts organizations, we had to adapt to the pandemic and rethink how to serve our students— many of whom spent the year weathering a constantly changing situation both at home and school. Unlike many others, we found ways to continue providing it. Music Education is at the core of the West Michigan Symphony mission—and we knew that, more than ever, young people needed access to the creative and emotional outlet it offers. Given the closure of schools for much of the school year, the cessation of field trips entirely, and the suspension of nearly all recorder and other beginner instrument programs, an in-person Link Up concert proved impossible during 2021. Accordingly, we placed our 16-year partnership with Carnegie Hall on temporary hold, replacing it with a self-curated program titled WMS MOVES. With curriculum by Director of Education Karen Vander Zanden, this virtual offering introduced students to the symphony orchestra and reinforced how an orchestra can “move”! Lesson plans provided teachers with classroom activities that coincided with the concert repertoire. Students were able to interact physically with the music while they learned about it. Like Link Up, the program culminated with a performance by the orchestra—but as an online Virtual Concert. This was available for viewing at a time of the school’s choosing during the month of May.
VIRTUAL MUSIC MENTOR
DEBUT STRINGS
The Music Mentor program, which connects Link Up students with professional musicians, happened through similar virtual means. Mentors, students and teachers gathered together via livestream technology to connect, interact and play music together. The virtual format had its own unique perks: students were able to “visit” musicians at their home studio, meet their pets and family, and experience their life in ways that would likely not have occurred in a classroom visit. (continued)
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We relaunched Debut Strings in the fall of 2020 with outdoor rehearsals at the Muskegon Farmers Market. September and October’s mild weather was ideal for this, and the Farmers Market—with its open air, semisheltered structure—provided the perfect setting. Since the students were not preparing for a concert, this was a unique time to deepen their musical and ensemble skills and simply take pleasure in the act of collective music making after a long absence. Also during fall, the WMS Children’s Choir rehearsed on line every week to prepare for their appearance during the virtual Home for the Holidays concert. It was an emotional moment in late November as they gathered, masked and distanced but in person, on the Frauenthal stage to record their portion of the concert (later mated to the orchestra track in the studio).
The confidence and trust of our donors kept us looking for solutions. As a result, area students had access to music when it was unavailable elsewhere. Both Debut Strings and the Children’s Choir resumed on-site rehearsals at The Block in March 2021. In June, before an enthusiastic live audience, they performed their first joint concert—which also marked the first live WMS event at the Frauenthal Center in 16 months. Under WMS safety guidelines, they continue to rehearse weekly and maintain their regular performance schedule. As we reflect on this unusual and challenging season, we are grateful for the unwavering faith of the many donors who continued to support us. The confidence and trust you placed in us kept us looking for solutions against seemingly insurmountable odds. As a result, West Michigan area students had access to music during a time when it was unavailable elsewhere. Whether participating virtually or in person, their exuberance and joy underscored the long-standing conviction that music matters. Irrespective of how it happens— whether on Zoom, Google or in person—music enriches the lives of children and adults through exploration, participation, and performance. Thanks to your support, we will continue to bring it to new generations. •• WMS CHILDREN’S CHOIR
DEBUT STRINGS AT FARMERS MARKET VIRTUAL CHILDREN’S CHOIR REHEARSAL
10 SUJARI BRITT EDUCATION EVENT
A NEW FRAMEWORK FOR DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION Addressing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion has risen to a new level of consciousness, both locally and nationally. Several prominent area organizations—most notably Muskegon Community College and the Community Foundation for Muskegon County—have demonstrated strong commitment to this cause. With connections to both organizations through shared board membership and other factors, WMS has gained new awareness and has been working quietly but intentionally to address this need for several years. An initial inflection point was the 2018 adoption of our Statement of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, followed by the convening of a new Leadership Council to explore ways to instill these values into our programming and community engagement. Last season, we took the next step. A dedicated task force of Board, musicians and staff—under the guidance of a professional facilitator—spent the eight months between November and June developing a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Framework. Coincidentally, the League of American Orchestras—our industry’s primary service organization—was undergoing a similar process at almost the same time. Because of our membership in the League, we were able to compare and contrast our findings, benefitting from their wider resources and experience. Intentional DEI work is incredibly challenging and humbling, and we freely admit that we have much to learn. We firmly believe in the universal value and relevance of the classical music art form, and we are committed to the process of dismantling the cultural and social barriers that inhibit many from experiencing it. The resulting DEI Framework, summarized below, was adopted by the Board of Directors in June and is now being incorporated into all of our strategic and operational planning.
DEI Steering Committee Leaders: Deanna Rolffs (facilitator), Music Director Scott Speck, CEO Andy Buelow, Board Chair Susan Cloutier-Crain, Noele Stith (facilitator)
BELIEFS
• Music and the arts increase belonging and connection • DEI work is essential to achieving our vision of a music-infused West Michigan • We have historically been a majority-white organization and art form, and we are committed to becoming more inclusive • Through DEI work we will bring new repertoire, new voices, and new relationships to the table
GOAL I
Become a community leader in advancing equity and inclusion through advocacy, dialogue and partnerships • Increase engagement with and attendance by underrepresented audiences and neighborhoods. Develop and deepen relationships with organizations led by and/or reaching underrepresented people.
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GOAL II
Become a safe and welcoming organization that encompasses a plurality of voices and backgrounds, reflecting our diverse community •
Increase participation and belonging of underrepresented people within board, staff and orchestra. Invite, engage and include diverse community voices in reshaping the organization. Support and participate in national initiatives that foster increased opportunities for musicians of color. Update recruitment, hiring and workplace policies and practices to foster inclusivity.
GOAL III
Offer an inclusive musical repertoire for a broad audience • Incorporate diverse composers and artists throughout programming. Engage community to gather input regarding inclusive programs. Research and, where appropriate, tap into national initiatives elevating music by underrepresented composers, artists and crossover groups.
GOAL IV
Increase access to instrumental and choral music and education, especially for underrepresented youth • Provide new and existing education programs and look for ways to remove barriers (cost, transportation, etc.) for underrepresented youth. Gather input and engage with educators and school leaders. Explore residencies, music camps to further inclusive commitments of our artistic mission with youth.
GOAL V
Make DEI an organizational value through ongoing learning, growing, questioning and applying • Conduct regular internal learning and application sessions, increase understanding of historical oppression nationally and regionally and how it impacts our community today, with special emphasis on its effect on access to music.
JOHN HEFFERNAN & RACHELE TORRES
HARMONY PARK OPENING
CLAIRE HUANGCI
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ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN & SCOTT SPECK
Launched in November 2020, West Michigan Symphony’s $5 million “Play Your Part” Campaign has two primary objectives. The first is to bring the Endowment to a level that will generate a significant percentage of the annual budget—between 15 and 18%—thereby providing a more stable revenue model for the future. The second is to establish “Tune Up,” a new string orchestra program for underserved students who currently lack access to such instruction. For more information on this initiative, please see sidebar. WMS’s “Play Your Part” Endowment is held at the Community Foundation for Muskegon County (CFFMC) and the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF). The corpus of each fund is owned, managed and directed by these foundations, whose trustees determine the timing and amount of distributions—normally 4% annually. Foundation staff handles all administrative details and investment responsibilities, freeing WMS leadership and staff to focus on mission delivery. We thank all those who have given generously to the campaign to date, and invite you to consider “playing a part” in WMS’s future. Whether through an outright gift or a designation in your will and trusts, your support will ensure continuity and future growth of WMS’s artistic and education footprint. To learn more, please contact Andy Buelow at 231.726.3231 or abuelow@westmichigansymphony.org.
Honorary Chairs
Larry & Lari Hines Robert & Wendy Kersman Fred & Joanna Norris Mike & Kay Olthoff Peter Turner & Jean Enright
Cabinet Members Sherry Becker Susan Bissell Jon & Jane Blyth Pete & Sherry Brown Ryan Bryker Susan Cloutier Crain Anne Dake Kevin Even Bill Eyke
Operation Chairs Jan Deur Kay Olthoff
Jim & Susan Geisler Dave Gerdes Kimberly L Hammond Paul & Karen Jackson Roger Morgenstern Steve & Deb Olsen Susan Rehrer Tom Schaub & Mary Price Dr Alan Steinman
PLAY YOUR PART CAMPAIGN as of 12/31/21 PLEDGES RECEIVED Endowment 2,857,668 1,120,985 Operating 263,945 104,407 Tune Up 619,033 342,076 Total 3,740,646 1,567,468
FILLING A GAP IN MUSKEGON’S MUSIC EDUCATION WMS’s Tune Up after-school orchestra program, launching in the fall of 2022, will provide intensive string instrument instruction to children with the fewest resources and greatest need in Muskegon. Tune Up is based on El Sistema, a visionary global orchestra movement that provides instrumental music education to underserved youth, developing the life skills and habits that lead to successful lives. Students will receive free use of a musical instrument, learn to play that instrument, participate in ensemble and sectional lessons, build friendships, and receive music and academic support from teaching artists and qualified staff. The program will take place in partnership with Muskegon Public Schools as part of its 21st CCLC Impact Program, which provides after-school academic enrichment opportunities. This will leverage Impact’s already established safe, supportive environment—including tutoring, snacks and fellowship—while adding a needed musical element. The pilot year of the program will impact 3rd and 4th grade students in two of Muskegon’s Elementary schools, with planned expansion in subsequent years to include all MPS elementary schools and Muskegon Middle School.
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PLAY YOUR PART DONORS Maestro: $250,000 and up Michael & Kay Olthoff Larry & Lari Hines Premiere: $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, Inc William & Mary Lou Eyke Fifth Third Bank Paul & Karen Jackson John & Jessie Martin Dr Richard & Nancy Peters Tom Schaub & Mary Price Concerto: $15,000-$24,999 Marilyn Andersen Allen & Sandy Beck
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Jackie Engel, CFP James & Susan Geisler Kimberly Hammond & Michael Martin matched by Bank of America Stephen & Susan Struck Prelude: $10,000-$14,999 Susan Bissell 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 Bonnie Olson Memorial Fund Susan Rehrer Robbins Road Animal Clinic Dr Alan Steinman John & Mary Swanson Liz & Tom Trzaska matched by RENK America Mr Peter M Turner Roger & Rebecca Tuuk Webb Chemical Judy Wilcox Overture: $5,000-$9,999 Anonymous (2) BDO Bill Baldridge Sherry 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 Patsy Hunt
Bari Johnson Tom & Pat Johnson Dick & Lynn Kamps Ray & Betsy Komray Clara Lang Mark & Bonnie Meengs Frank & Emma Peterson Suzanne Richards & Lee Burlison 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 (2) Cynthia Ackerman Christine Adams Charles & Gloria Alstrom Margo Atwell Bank of America Charitable Foundation Jack & Marilyn Brown Ryan & Katie Bryker Robert & Charlotte Chessman George & Deborah Chmelar 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 & Bonnie Gluhanich Mr & Mrs Bill Hendrick Cornelia Holley Keith & Mary Kay Hopkins Hugh & Barbara Hornstein Richard & Holly Hughes Ed Hunt & Nancy McCarthy Bruce & Mary Krueger Peter Kurdziel Michael Martin
Cindy Mazurek Chris McGuigan & Gary Neal 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 Kurt Rosen 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, Inc Michael & Corina Soimar Scott Speck in honor of the WMS Musicians Ted & Judy Stojak Bryce & Marti Tallant Carol Parker Thompson Peter & Judy Theune Judy Tierney
Evan & Rachel Ufer David & Laura Valk 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) Anonymous in honor of Fred & Joanna Norris Larry & Sandra Austin 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
CLAIRE HUANGCI
Doug & Judy Hostetler Mary Ann Howe Joel & Kathleen Jarvis 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 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
MAMBO KINGS
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2020-2021 OPERATING REPORT 2020-2021 was unique in the history of WMS. Due to resourcefulness and determination, we performed a full eight-concert symphonic series, initially utilizing very small ensembles that increased in size gradually over the season. Until nearly the end of the season, performances were offered solely in our Virtual Concert Hall. In the spring of 2021, a reduced subscriber-only audience attended the final season concerts—the first live admissions to the Frauenthal Center in 15 months. The above factors changed annual operating results in significant ways. Our subscribers exhibited an amazing amount of loyalty, with only a small percentage requesting refunds. This helped to blunt the impact of what would otherwise have been a catastrophic decline in attendance revenue, given the near total lack of single ticket sales. Earned Revenue was at $327,725, 32% of budget, up three points from the previous fiscal year but still well below the norm. Carrying the day, Contributed Revenue remained strong at $703,600, 68% of budget. This is especially remarkable in light of the simultaneous Play Your Part (PYP) Education & Endowment Campaign, which entered its quiet phase in November 2020. (Summarized on preceding page) Program Service expenses were down 25% from 2018-2019 (the last “normal” season), reflecting the smaller ensemble sizes necessary to keep the musicians safely distanced onstage and—during the first half of the season—the absence of any wind instruments.
2020-2021 SEASON OPERATING RESULTS REVENUE Earned Contributed TOTAL EXPENSE Program Services Administration Advancement TOTAL Surplus (Deficit)
REVENUE Individuals: 37%
327,725 703,600 1,031,325
Corporate: 16% Admissions: 23% Foundation: 15%
671,631 279,093 43,195 993,919 37,406
*Excludes revenue and expense from Play Your Part Campaign. See page 13
Other Earned: 9%
EXPENSE
Program Services: 68% Administration: 27% Advancement: 5%
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SUSTAINING THE SYMPHONY 2020-2021 ANNUAL CAMPAIGN AUGUST 1, 2020 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2021
$10,000 and up Anonymous Jan & Laura Deur Deborah DeVoursney Pat & Julie Donahue Douglas & Janet Hoch Buzz & Wendy Kersman Mike & Kay Olthoff Mary Price Jack & Becky Slimko $5,000-$9,999 Anonymous Jon & Jane Blyth Pete & Sherry Brown Orville Crain & Susan Cloutier Crain William & Mary Lou Eyke Bari Johnson Daniel & Sheryl Kuznar Donna & Scott Lachniet Joanna & Fred Norris Suzanne Richards & Lee Burlison Jill Sanders Peter M Turner JoLee Wennersten Marguerite & Kenneth Winter $2,500-$4,999 Anonymous (2) Bonnie Borgeson Andy & Beth Buelow Michael Cerminaro & Connie Verhagen Ruth Clark Rob & Cathleen Dubault Tilio Giacobassi Family Bruce & Donna Hood Paul & Karen Jackson Charles & Vivian Johnson Steve & Deb Olsen Bonnie Olson Memorial Fund of the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF) Chrissy Robison Sawyer Family Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County (CFFMC) Michael Smith Michael & Corina Soimar Susan & Stephen Struck Roger & Rebecca Tuuk $1,000-$2,499 Anonymous (5) Charles & Gloria Alstrom Marilyn V Andersen
Bruce & Paula Baker Allen & Sandy Beck Cathy & Bernie Berntson Fund of the CFFMC Herb & Anne Bevelhymer William Bissell Arthur & Marilyn Bolt Ryan & Katie Bryker Gordon & Mary Buitendorp Ardy Bulthouse Kroes in memory of Rodger Kroes Dr Mark D & Kristina M Clark Don & Kathy Dahlstrom matched by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Mary Douville Marcia D’Oyly Roni Devlin Jackie Engel, CFP Ron Fritz David F Gerdes & Carolyn Smith-Gerdes Michael & Bonnie Gluhanich Don Goodman Robert & Clara Harrell Bill Haug & Jane Curtis Hugh & Barbara Hornstein Ruth & Bob Keessen Barbara Kelso Marilyn & Brian McKeown Pete & Mimi Kunz Mr & Mrs Paul Ladas Clara Lang John & Jessie Martin Mark & Bonnie Meengs Anne & Bart Merkle Chris McGuigan & Gary Neal Dale & Connie Nesbary Perry & Deb Newson Chris & Amy Olthoff Mary Payne Gary & Beth Post Paul Richards in memory of Charles Richards David Roodvoets Scott Speck Dr F Remington & Ginny Sprague Dr Alan Steinman John & Mary Swanson Marty & Heidi Sytsema David & Linda Taylor Don & Jane Tjarksen Elinore Verplank Robert & Nancy Voyt Michael & Patricia Wade Judy Wilcox Jane J Wright
$500-$999 Anonymous Anonymous in honor of Joanna & Fred Norris Barbara Bates-Lalick & Martin Lalick Ron & Ann Marie Brown Michael & Joanna Buboltz Maureen Campbell Curtis Chambers & Diana Wojton George & Deborah Chmelar Rudy & Pat Chmelar Albrecht & Susan Cogswell in memory of Robert & Barbara Buelow Dr Donald & Nancy Crandall William & Carol Cross III Allan & Anne Dake Karen & Herb Driver Harold & Mary Englund Kevin & Annette Even Eugene Fethke Larry Fife Charles & Patti Fisher James & Karel Fox Charles & Lynn Freeman James & Susan Geisler Jan & David Harris Family Giving Fund Theresa Hegedus Kurt & Antoinette Hildwwin Greg & Debi Hillebrand Mary Ann Howe Gwen Hoffman Pat Hunt Stephen & Debra Jackson Wilda James Jason Jespersen in memory of David Jespersen Tom & Pat Johnson Francine Kieft Joan La Mourie Robert & JoAnn Landman Ms Cindy Larsen Donna Little & Faye Redmond Charles Matthews & Kay Cater Matthews Cindy Mazurek Paul & Winnie McNergney Scott & Janee’ Musselman Rhonda Myers Eric Norris in honor of Joanna & Fred Norris Dr C Michael & Mary O’Brien Jason & Jamye Olthoff Jim & Ruthann Olthoff Carol Parker Thompson Janet Payne David & Beth Pickard Sylvia Precious
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Mike & Char Ratchford Susan Rehrer Randall & Gretchen Rhoades Dr Gary & Pennie Robertson John Saling & Diane Fischer Gwynne & Steve Schoff Laura Schultz Jocelyn Shaw & Doug Hannink Susan Sridharan Leon & Zinnie Stille Jane & Tim Stoepker Clifford & Lucia Storr Ann & Dan Tabor George & Laura Thurlow Dr Jane L Toot Richard & Marge Tourre Liz & Tom Trzaska Kay VanderWall Ellie Williams Paul & Sherry Wilson Robert & Joanne Zayko Jim & Linda Zolman
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$100-$499 Anonymous (11) Bonnie Adamczak Brown Chris Adams Ross & Sandra Aden Ron & Nancy Anderson Margo Atwell Jerry & Barbara Bakker Stephen & Martha Bartlett Greg Bassett Karla Bates Gary Beatty Paul & Grace Benedict Theodore & Joanne Bensinger Carl & Bonnie Bergman Robert & Cindy Birtles in memory of Jon Chesney Andrew Bissonnette Charles Black Greg & Kara Black in honor of Joanna & Fred Norris William Black Jerry & Marcia Brichan Mary & Bob Boyer Barbara Brower & Gerald Johnson Jack & Marilyn Brown Roy & Britta Bujak Portenga Keven Burchfield Andrew Busard Greta Bushnell David Carlson Joe & Natalie Carmolli Michael & Kristine Carpenter Linda Caughey Alyson Chapman Bob & Charlotte Chessman Dr Paul & Nancy Christie Valerie & Fred Church-McHugh Joanne Cochrane Darlene Collet E Jane Connell & Steven W Rosen Roger Cooper Lee Copenhaver
Ryan & Angela Corbin David & Marie Culver Steve & Darleen Dangel Mary Theodore Danigelis Kurt & Cheryl Deford Diane DeGrazia Paula DeGregorio & Frank Galante Dr David & Susan Deitrick Ed DeJong & Diane VanWesep Larry & Ursula DeVoogd Greg & Judith DeWeerd Michael & Nancy Dodge Brad Doriot Bruce & Esther Drukker Dennis & Barbara Dryer Janice Dyer Amanda & Gregory Dykhouse Bruce & Linda Eckerman in memory of Jon Chesney James Edmonson Kath & Greg Edwards Joel & Linda Engel Jean Enright Tim & Anne Erickson Corrine Erickson Strand Bob & Ann Erler John Essex Wallace & Jane Ewing Geraldine Farrar Randy Lynnel Filbrandt Janet Fortenbacher N Michael Galinis Chuck & Jeanne Gembis Flo Gerling John Giganti Erica Gillard Marjorie Gorajec George Gordon Tom & Diane Gordon Mary Anne Gorman Jim & Karen Grace Marcia Grasman Linda Gregorian LaDon Gustafson in memory of Susan Bissell Revs Susan & Jerry Hagans Linda Hagemann Jeff & Gail Hall Raymond Hamil Tom Happel Hayner Consulting and Management Services, LLC Robert & Kiristina Hedges Mary Henry Patricia Hesling Thomas & Rita Higgins Martin Hillila Sarah Hirdes Herbert S & Elinor Hoeker Bud & Shelly Hoffman in memory of Jon Chesney Cornelia Holley William Horne in memory of Margaret Linebaugh and in honor of her children Mary Anne & Thom Hornik
Doug & Judy Hostetler Marcia Hovey-Wright & Ernie Boone Richard & Holly Hughes John & Jane Humphrey Nicholas Huryk Charles & Suze Huttula Jose & Sue Infante Joel & Kathleen Jarvis Don & Penny Johnson Robert & Susan Johnson Betty Johnston Dr Morton Kantor David & Loretta Kasprzyk Barbara Kidd Gloria Klinger in honor of Mr & Mrs Ivo Soljan Dr Ray & Betsy Komray Marie Kordecki Bruce & Mary Krueger Peter Kurdziel Claudia Lague Michael Lamkin Pam Lascko Phyllis Laurin Joan Leder Mark Leonard in honor of Steven & Kitty Leonard Margaret Linebaugh Patricia Locke William & Mary Macleod Jim & Mary Malek Marsha Marek Deborah Margules Shirley McIntire Garry & Julie McKeen Marilyn & Brian McKeown John & Cindy McKinnon Gloria McNarland L Scott McNeill Carole Meade Susan Meston Alice Michaud Rich & Teresa Micheil Patrick & Sheila Miller Marjolein Moser & John Bousfield Roger & Jane Missimer Dave & Kathy Myers Ed & Ginevra Naill David R Nancarrow Phil Nehar Matt & Laurel Nease Gary Nelund & Angie Wasserman-Nelund Kathryn L Neumann Carol Norris in honor Joanna & Fred Norris Garry & Charlotte Olson Roland & Evelyn Olson Merilee & Kenneth Otto Richard A. Pardini Daniel & Dominga Partenio Thomas Pascoe William & Gay Petersen Frank & Emma Peterson Richard & Nancy Piersma Irene Pierson Nick & Barb Pietrangelo
Albert & Elizabeth Posthuma Denis & Barbara Potuznik Margaret Price Bruce & Shirley Privacky Rev William Randall Bruce & Mari Rice Linda Riehl Dan & Sarah Rinsema-Sybenga Kenneth Robison Charles & Susan Rogalla Tindall Kathy & Mike Rohlman Bruce & Judy Rollston Merry Rosenberg Marilyn Rottschafer-Andriese Karl & Barbara Rowe John & Marilyn Ruck James M. Rynberg Bob & Bobbi Sabine Marjorie Salata Marc Sawyers & Alicia Gregorian Sawyers Duane & Susan Schecter Jack & Jill Scheerhorn Jim Schmidt Stephen Schmidt Pat & Ed Schroeder Michael & Debra Schubert Sue Schuiteman Mark & Pam Schumaker in memory of Kay Ostrom Glenn H Sheathelm Thomas & Suzanne Shepherd Kenneth Sherburn Dar Smith Frank & Barbara Smith Helen & Jay Smith Hayden Smith Joanie Smith Michael Smith Robert & Jennifer Snideman Gayle Speck in honor of Andy Buelow George & Dottie Strabel Catherine Steed in memory of Jon Chesney Jean Stein Anbritt & Darlene Stengele Bill Papo & Julie Stewart James & Nancy Stier Ted & Judy Stojak Robert & Julie Stuberg Verne & Janet Sutherland in memory of Julia E Sutherland Howard & Marilyn Swanson Bryce & Marti Tallant Peter & Judy Theune Bernadette Thomas Judith Tierney Mary Jo Towle in honor of Joanna & Fred Norris Mary Towner Pastor Bill & Bev Uetricht John & Barbara Usmial David & Laura Valk Stephen Vallier John Van Walsum Bridget VanDerhoff Phillip VanderPol David Vanderwall
Nancy & Gerrit Vanderwest Tom Vitale Bill & Shirley Walther Daniel & Barbara Weikel Dan & Nancy Weller Harry & Julie Wierenga Brewster & Mary Ellen Willcox Frank & Sandra Williams Joe & Cindy Wolff in memory of Loopo the Clown Duane & Laurie Wright Douglas & Jennifer Zwemer
Hung and Elsie Liang Fund for Music of the GHACF John L. Wheeler Memorial Scholarship Fund of the CFFMC Lakeshore Creative Services North Bank Fund of the GHACF Shon Cook Law PC
Corporate, Arts Council & Foundation Donors
Past Presidents Club The Past Presidents Club 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.
$10,000 and up Community Foundation for Muskegon County (CFFMC) DTE Energy Foundation Fund Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF) Leonel L & Mary Loder Fund of the CFFMC Meijer Foundation Michigan Council for Arts & Cultural Affairs Nichols Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce $5,000-$9,999 Fremont Area Community Foundation The Gerber Foundation Fifth Third Bank Hines Corporation Howmet Community Fund of the CFFMC JSJ Foundation Fund The Loutit Foundation Mercy Health RENK America Samuel L. Westerman Foundation Shoreline Insurance Agency, Inc. Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge $2,500-$4,999 Active Manufacturing Consumers Energy Core Realty Partners Eagle Alloy, Inc Lorin Industries Muskegon Community College Raymond James Scherdel Sales and Technology $1,000-$2,499 Billie Klont Greinke Memorial Fund of the CFFMC Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Newkirk Electric Sand Products Corporation Fund of the CFFMC Sparta Community Foundation $500-$999 Ann & Bud Eichmann Fund of the CFFMC Bank of America Gentry Real Estate LLC
$100-$499 Grand Valley State University Schierholz/Hogan Family Fund of the CFFMC
Pete Brown Marcia D’Oyly David Gerdes Holly Hughes David Hogan Pat Hunt Paul Jackson G Thomas Johnson Wendy Kersman JoAnn Landman Clara Lang Deb Newson Fred Norris Kay Olthoff Mike Olthoff Sylvia Precious Chip Sawyer Susan Sridharan Ann Tabor Jane Toot Peter Turner Jane Wright Block Underwriters Pete & Sherry Brown Consumers Energy Eagle Alloy Jan & Laura Deur Lake Michigan Credit Union Lorin Industries Mercy Health Muskegon Community College Nichols Steve & Deb Olsen Mary Price & Tom Schaub Scherdel Sales & Technology Shoreline Insurance Agency, Inc Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Stella Artois Michael & Corina Soimar Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
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CORPORATE AND FOUNDATION DONORS
Folkert Family Foundation GREATEST NEEDS FUND
Howmet Community Fund
Leonel L & Mary Loder Fund of the
at the Community Foundation for Muskegon County
Community Foundation for Muskegon County
SAMUEL L. WESTERMAN
FOUNDATION
Bank of America Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Comerica Eagle Alloy, Inc Gerber Foundation
Hung & Elsie Liang Fund of the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF) Newkirk Electric North Bank Fund of the GHACF Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp
Rotary Club of Grand Haven Sand Products Corporation Sparta Community Foundation
BLOCK UNDERWRITERS Pete & Sherry Brown Consumers Energy Jan & Laura Deur Grand Valley State University Lake Michigan Credit Union
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Lorin Industries Mercy Health Muskegon Community College Nichols Steve & Deb Olsen
Tom Schaub & Mary Price Shoreline Insurance Agency, Inc Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Michael & Corina Soimar Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
