The Vancouver Symphony’s 2008 Composer’s Gala - A Big Success

The annual Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s Composer’s Gala was held at the Vancouver Hilton April 19, and it was a record breaking event. A net amount of $120,000 was raised to benefit the VSO.

Keeping the event fresh this year, for the first time members of the Vancouver Symphony string sections performed a variety of chamber music pieces as part of the event.

Four musical groups including Spanish Guitarist, Sam Battaglia; Jazz Pianist, Mac Potts, The Doctor’s Trio; and the Tabor Jazz Trio donated their services to the auction, and were paired with catering as actual auction items. These were very popular in the easel party auction.

“Kudos to our Gala Committee. It was a spectacular event, beautiful to the eye and ear with lovely tables and wonderful music, some of which was for sale in the auction.” said Celia Gesting, President of the VSO.

“I am very grateful for our sponsors; First Independent, RealVest Corporation, Cascade Dental, Alaska Airlines, Nutter Construction, Wells Fargo and Robinson Construction. They are supporting an important organization as they recognize the importance of music; from a child’s educational development to enjoyable art for the public.” said event chair, Glenda Michaels. “Also, our Masters of Ceremonies; Mike Worthy and Renee Newman added a touch of elegance to the evening and the two of them worked brilliantly together.”

The Annual Composer’s Gala is a volunteer driven event to benefit the Vancouver Symphony.

“The success of this year’s Gala was the result of a lot of hard work by great women. We hired Simple Pleasures (owned by Courtney Givens) as our event coordinator who did a superb job for us.” said Michaels.  “Committee members include Lyndee Cunningham, Colleen Dinkel, Patricia Galt, Jean Hix, Nien-Wei Hsiao, Renee Newman, Linda Odenberg, Sondra Powell, Donna Roberge, Marion Rogers, Karen Sahlstrom, Verdella Whareham and Joan Winton. These women worked very hard and are great supporters of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. Volunteers like these are truly the heart of the organization.”

The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra has been in operation for 29 seasons, and currently presents 18 performances per year including two summer concerts in Esther Short Park, two student concerts and 7 double performances of subscription concerts. Salvador Brotons is Music Director and Conductor of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.

For More Information: contact: Celia Gesting 360-735-7278