by Devon Maloney

In January , the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra announced the launch of Resounding : The Campaign for the BSO ’ s Second Century . The comprehensive Campaign aims to raise $ 65 million by December 2019 to ensure the financial viability of the BSO , which celebrated its centennial in the 2015 – 2016 season , through the institution ’ s second 100 years and beyond .

Resounding will raise $ 50 million for the organization ’ s endowment , $ 10 million for the BSO ’ s Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestras ( BSYO ) and OrchKids education programs and $ 5 million in expanded Annual Fund support .

“ The announcement of this Campaign brings me and our dedicated Board members and Campaign Committee members a feeling of great excitement ,” says Barbara Bozzuto , BSO Board Chair and Resounding Campaign Co-Chair . “ The Campaign will help secure the best possible future for the BSO . Strengthening our endowment and expanding the reach of our stellar educational programming will ensure that the BSO continues to remain a cultural gem . The generous commitments secured to date are a true testament to the many people who love our orchestra and recognize the vital role that the BSO plays in the cultural fabric of our region .”

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As one of the premier orchestras in the country and around the world , and as the state ’ s largest arts organization , the BSO sees growing its endowment as essential to its mission to promote artistic excellence , engage new and diverse audiences and expand music education opportunities for young people .

“ This Campaign will help us to sustain and advance the BSO , its exceptional musicians and our innovative concerts and programs that reach hundreds of thousands of people each year ,” says BSO President and CEO Peter Kjome .

The Campaign has already achieved significant momentum , raising over $ 43 million towards its $ 65 million goal . As one of the most important campaigns in the BSO ’ s history , it will provide key support as the institution embarks upon its second century .

“ With the leadership of our Board and visionary community leaders who continue to

Marin Alsop leads the BSO at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall ( Above ). OrchKids Bucket Band ( Right ).

demonstrate incredible passion for our great orchestra , we have made remarkable progress ,” Kjome continues . “ With this generous support , two-thirds of the Campaign goal has been achieved . We are optimistic that these substantial commitments will help inspire the significant participation of many others .”

Part of the Campaign will raise $ 5 million to augment the BSO ’ s Annual Fund and provide additional operating support while endowment funds are being secured and invested . In line with other orchestras , annual contributions account for approximately 60 % of the organization ’ s operating budget . These gifts are fundamental to maintaining the BSO ’ s world-class concerts and artistic programming .

The Campaign will also raise $ 10 million to advance the BSO ’ s educational programs by expanding the reach of OrchKids and BSYO and supporting collaborative efforts between the two . Orchkids and BSYO provide an array of educational opportunities that enrich the lives of countless talented young students in the region .

This Campaign will help us to sustain and advance the BSO , its exceptional musicians and our innovative concerts and programs that reach hundreds of thousands of people each year .

— Peter Kjome