Volunteer Notes

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The League of American Orchestras Volunteer Council leads, advocates, and champions volunteer organizations in their efforts to support their orchestras' community outreach and civic partnerships to advance the experience of orchestral music.

Spring Edition 2026

Kellie Sullivan, Volunteer Notes Editor | Sullivanaxid@aol.com

In This Issue

President's Message

See you in Baltimore!

Advocacy Day for the Arts

Volunteer News: Houston Symphony League Book Club Volunteer News: Kansas City Auxiliaries Volunteer News: Richmond Symphony League Volunteer News: Santa Rosa Symphony League Volunteer News: Waco Symphony Council Volunteer Council: Then and Now

President's Message

Darlene Clark, President, Volunteer Council 2025-2026

As the temperature begins to warm up, I always look forward to Spring membership meetings where we gather to celebrate volunteering and our local symphony. There’s something about the lovely new leaves and bird songs that inspires me to get outside and volunteer with friends.   Time is flying for all of us on the Volunteer Council as we are preparing for the upcoming League of American Orchestras Conference in Baltimore June 1-3, 2026. As with last year, we will again present our award-winning projects in creative ways. We are putting together inspiring and educational volunteer-centric programs and opportunities to network with fellow volunteers from all over the country.    Please join us in Baltimore to gather to celebrate volunteering and all our symphonies. I look forward to meeting all of you and hearing your stories.

See you in Baltimore!

We are just months away from the annual League of American Orchestras National Conference, taking place in Baltimore June 1–3, 2026—and we are thrilled to welcome volunteers from across the country representing orchestras and volunteer groups of all sizes. If you’re looking for fresh ideas, renewed energy, and connections with people who understand the heart of volunteer leadership, this Conference is for you. Whether you represent a large auxiliary or a small but mighty group, you’ll leave with practical strategies, new inspiration, and relationships that continue long after the Conference ends. Conference highlights include hearing from this year’s Gold Award of Excellence winners as they share innovative ways they support their orchestras and strengthen their own organizations. These sessions are always filled with real-world ideas you can bring home and put into action immediately. Attendees will also participate in engaging general sessions covering timely topics that past participants consistently describe as insightful, energizing, and truly transformative. And you won’t want to miss the performance by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra featuring "Aspects of America'—followed by the always fabulous Tune Up Party! Early Bird Registration is now open. Invest in your leadership, your organization, and the future of your orchestra—and join us in Baltimore. We can’t wait to see you there!

Advocacy Day for the Arts

  Each year, arts advocates gather at state capitols to remind lawmakers why the arts matter. While many participants work in the arts, volunteers often make the strongest case—sharing personal stories about how orchestras and other cultural organizations enrich communities, support education, and strengthen local economies. At a time when arts funding and programs face increasing challenges, these voices are more important than ever. Arts Advocacy Days offer a powerful opportunity to speak directly with legislators, share your experience, and make a clear case for continued support. To find out when your elected officials may be available to meet with you at home, check out the League's calendar of opportunities. With events taking place throughout the spring, preparation is key: know your legislators, understand their priorities, and be ready to tell your story. Personal connections leave a lasting impression and a thoughtful follow-up helps keep the arts top of mind. Many volunteers describe Arts Advocacy Day as one of their favorite days of the year. It’s a chance to celebrate your orchestra, connect with fellow advocates, and champion the creative spirit of your community. We hope you’ll participate in your state’s next Arts Advocacy Day and share your experience with us.

Volunteer News: Kansas City Auxiliaries

On January 21, the three Auxiliaries of the Kansas City Symphony—the Alliance, the Guild, and the League—came together for a memorable and engaging evening with Dr. Rebecca Lepping. Dr. Lepping, a cognitive neuroscientist, music psychologist, and musician with the University of Kansas, presented a fascinating talk titled Music and the Mind: Exploring the Neuroscience of Music. Musicians from the Kansas City Symphony performed quartet selections that beautifully complemented and highlighted key moments of her presentation. A reception held both before and after the program provided time for attendees to connect with one another, as well as with Dr. Lepping, the musicians, and Symphony staff. This event marked the first joint program hosted by our three auxiliaries—and we’re happy to say it certainly won’t be the last!

In addition, the Kansas City Symphony Guild sponsored a fun filled evening with Elvis, including a stage show, dancing, and lots of food and drink. This was the first time the Symphony Guild Events of Note Committee sponsored this event as a fundraiser for the KC Symphony, resulting in a sold out crowd and a very engaged audience.  

Volunteer News: Santa Rosa Symphony League

Founded in 1958 alongside the arrival of a new music director, the Santa Rosa Symphony League grew out of a desire to deepen community involvement. Early members played a vital role in supporting the orchestra—selling subscriptions, ushering concerts, and organizing fundraisers at a time when volunteers were essential to daily operations. That spirit continues today through events like the Festival of Parties, support for musicians, and ongoing contributions to music education programs, totaling more than $1 million and countless volunteer hours. Today, the League remains dedicated to raising funds for the Symphony’s Institute for Music Education, enriching the lives of young people in Sonoma County through music. Members also serve as ambassadors for the Symphony, building community and connection while continuing a proud tradition of friendship, service, and shared purpose.