Save this orchestra

The Chicago Philharmonic’s budget has never hit a more somber note in its 19 years. Comprised of members of the Lyric Opera Orchestra, the Philharmonic was forced to make changes to its 2008–09 season when the grants, subscriptions and donor money it relies on fell short. To close the gap, the organization started offering quartets and quintets at concerts rather than the full orchestra, and even began playing shows at donors’ homes to drum up cash. “We were determined to take the bull by the horns and make sure that we could put on some great programs,” says Jim Berkenstock, artistic coordinator and principal bassoonist. He adds that new donors would give the orchestra the stability it needs to present its 20th-anniversary season with a complete orchestra. “People who are most likely to donate are people who have heard the group, because then they understand what’s so special about it.”

Hear why the Philharmonic is so special Sunday 31 at Pick-Staiger Hall.

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