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"The regular symphony season runs from September to May, so we were looking for a way to maintain interest in classical music over the summer and broaden our audience base," said Teresa Ternes, General Manager. A grant from the Lethbridge Community Foundation enabled the Symphony to undertake and promote this summer event. "We wanted to assist the Symphony to increase its profile and generate funds of its own," said Ken Lewis, Foundation President.
Music on the Mountain
The hills were alive with the sound of music this past summer as the Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra presented Music on the Mountain, an outdoor concert at the Powder Keg Ski Hill during Rum Runner Days in the Crowsnest Pass.
"The Foundation's support made a tremendous difference," Teresa added. "It was a real vote of confidence in the Symphony and made us realize that there are so many people who value what we do and recognize what we contribute to the cultural life of our community."
The grant enabled the Symphony to do much more advertising of Music on the Mountain. "Advertising is so necessary. It is the only way that people can find out that we're doing something new and different, something apart from our regular season that they will want to attend," she said. "The advertising enabled us to attract more attention."
The Foundation's faith and funds were well placed. "By all accounts, Music on the Mountain was a highly successful event this year. We had more than 900 people attend the concert. Our goal of broadening the audience base was also achieved because 98% of those attending were not season ticket holders during the previous season, and 58% were from outside Lethbridge," said Teresa. "What the Foundation believed we could do.. .we did!"
The Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra was formed in 1960 when local teacher Albert Rodnunsky spread the word of his interest in forming an
orchestra and received 17 replies from other like minded musicians. The Association was officially incorporated under the Societies Act on February 16, 1961, and its first performance was in May of the same year.
"The Lethbridge Symphony Association is in its 43rd season and, although the number of musicians in the Orchestra goes up or down slightly dependent on the repertoire, we currently have about 75 musicians in the Orchestra."
From LCF Report to the Community.
Updated September 2009
www.lethbridgecommunityfoundation.ca
403.328.5297 office@lethbridgecommunityfoundation.ca 404 8th St South
