Pro Arte Chamber Orchestra of Boston

CONTACT:

99 Bishop Allen Drive
Cambridge, MA 02139
(617) 661-7067
www.proarte.org

Scott Schillin, Execitive Director

DESCRIPTION:

This is a gem of arts philanthropy — combining the highest artistic excellence with spacious philanthropic vision and very high cost-effectiveness, to constitute a first-rate charitable giving opportunity.

Founded as a cooperative chamber orchestra (still the only one in New England) in 1978, Pro Arte brings together thirty-six of Boston’s most outstanding professional freelance musicians, who together provide artistic direction for six Sunday afternoon concerts in Sanders Theatre of new and traditional chamber orchestra music. Performances are preceded by an “Aperitif” (a free) introductory discussion between audience members onstage and the artists, and succeeded by an “Ask the Artist” audience debriefing with the artists, hosted by musicologist Steven Ledbetter.

Philanthropically, though only 1/5 of its low annual budget ($550,000) is funded by ticket sales, Pro Arte commits 1,700 free and low-price tickets to its “Access” program for disabled persons, at-risk and disadvantaged youth, and senior citizens. Its “Back to Classical” school program engages 300 teenagers in one-on-one instrument lessons, teaching demonstrations, chamber ensemble coaching and side-by-side attendance at rehearsals. Does it get any better than this? Will you help make it happen?

(2000: CULTURE: Arts: Performing: Music and Dance)