Dear Friends,
Because of you, last season was not only successful — it was transformative.
Your philanthropic investment powered every note on our stage and every student we reached in the community. You made it possible for us to present bold artistic programs, welcome worldclass guest artists, and celebrate the extraordinary musicians who bring our orchestra to life. You helped us deepen our education and community partnerships, expanding access to live symphonic music for thousands of young people and families across our region.
At a time when many organizations face uncertainty, your generosity provided stability, confidence, and momentum. You allowed us to think ambitiously — to program with imagination, to invest in artistic excellence, and to continue planning to serve our city for generations.
Philanthropy is not simply support; it is belief. Your belief in this orchestra affirms that music matters — to our civic identity, to economic vitality, and to the shared cultural life that defines a thriving community.
On behalf of our musicians, board, and staff, thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your vision. We are deeply grateful — and excited for what we will accomplish together next season.
With sincere appreciation,
Maureen O’Brien Chief Executive Officer
Dear Friends,
Our 2024–25 season at the Columbus Symphony was a year of exciting artistic creation and growth for the orchestra, made even more special for me as it was my 10th anniversary season as music director. Since coming to Columbus a decade ago, I have forged so many musical memories and found wonderful friendships with many of you, our dedicated supporters and patrons.
From kicking off the 2024–25 season with a celebration of John Williams’ film music, to welcoming spectacular guest artists like pianist Maxim Lando and violinist Aubree Oliverson, to a sold-out West Side Story in collaboration with BalletMet, CAPA and Opera Columbus, we brought magic to the stage of the Ohio Theatre.
Beyond that, we once again took our orchestra to Appalachian Ohio’s stunning Ash Cave, reached tens of thousands of young people through our education initiatives, engaged underserved groups with outreach events and free tickets, and more.
All of this is possible because of you — the power behind all we do to inspire and build a strong community through music. Your passion, commitment, and generosity are so deeply appreciated, and I want you to know that your investment in the Columbus Symphony makes
K-12 students engaged through in-school programming and concerts
Donor Profile: G. Ross Bridgman
“Supporting the production of the Columbus Symphony's A Train Near Magdeburg recording is a project close to my heart. By providing the stirring score for this documentary, the Symphony is helping to tell a vitally important story that preserves the memory of the Holocaust and honors the heroism of America's World War II veterans. As A Train Near Magdeburg becomes distributed more broadly, I am excited for an increasingly wide audience to hear the talent and artistry of the Columbus Symphony on full display.”
— G. Ross Bridgman, former Symphony board member pictured with Joshua Bell
Donor Profile: Rhoma Berlin
“Rhoma loved the Columbus Symphony for over 60 years. She thought it was important Columbus have a great local symphony. Her membership in the Friends of the Columbus Symphony volunteer group brought her much happiness. She developed lifelong friendships with many of the musicians, and enjoyed every concert and event. It was her blessing to contribute to an organization where she received so much in return.”
— Brook Berlin, son of longtime Columbus Symphony supporter Rhoma Berlin, who passed away February 16, 2025
Student Profile: Connor Chaffin
“Participating in the Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestra and studying with Principal Bassoon Betsy Sturdevant have been incredibly impactful in my development as a musician and bassoonist. Joining CSYO during my freshman year of high school introduced me to orchestral playing for the first time. It was there that I met Betsy when she coached the CSYO bassoon students, and I asked her to be my teacher. As a result of my CSYO experience and Betsy’s guidance, I won the prestigious Kovner Fellowship, which covers the cost of all four years of study at Juilliard. I’m amazed at how my path is unfolding and I’m very excited about launching my career as a professional musician.”
— Connor Chaffin, The Juilliard School Class of 2029
